This is the pilot episode of what I would like to become a new monthly feature appropriately titled: “Volleyball Celebrity Musical Playlist.”

It all depends on “sweeps week” to see if it gets picked up. You know…

What classifies a particular volleyball athlete as a “celebrity?” Well, it’s simple really; volleyball nation needs to have some idea of who the player is. And if the athlete is recognizable by only one name, even better.

For my first edition, I reached out to a player that every female youth is desperately aspiring to be: 2008 United States Olympic beach volleyball representative and former University of Minnesota first-team all-American, Nicole Branagh. An athlete I believe just might be the next greatest beach player on the planet behind those girls, you know, May and Walsh.

“Boy, that’s a bold claim, isn’t it Hans?”

How about this for bold: AVP Rookie of the Year 2005, AVP Most Improved Player 2006 & 2008, FIVB Most Improved Player 2008, AVP Best Offensive Player 2009, AVP Most Valuable Player 2009, AVP Crocs Cup Champion and member of AVP Team of the Year 2009 (with Elaine Youngs), 14 AVP Championships, including nine in 2009 alone; 2 FIVB Championships, 12 total FIVB medals, Just under $800,000 in career prize money, and that little thing called the Olympic Games.

Nicole Branagh is a straight-up baller. Don’t be afraid to also check her out on her brand new website, NicoleBranagh.com, to view a fresh supply of volleyball photos and videos. And of course, feel free to do some light internet stalking here.

Oh, and her musical taste isn’t so bad either. Enjoy!

“Fallin’ For You” by Colbie Calliat: “Reminds me of someone special…”

“Say Hey (I love you)” by Michael Franti & Spearhead: “Has a great beat and could be a really fun wedding dance song!”

“City On Our Knees” by TobyMac: “Faith… hope…”

“Fireflies” by Owl City: “Something totally different than other music I have, but it’s interesting and there’s something about it that I like.”

“Droplets” by Colbie Calliat (feat. Jason reeves): ”Love her voice, totally relaxing… and great lyrics.”

“I Gotta Feeling” by Black Eyed Peas: ”Memories from summer 2009… so much fun with EY and friends!”

“Love Is Here” by Tenth Avenue North: ”Just one word, love. Something I feel we all need.”

“Do You Remember” by Jay Sean (feat. Sean Paul and Lil’ John)

“Body Language” by Jesse McCartney (feat. T-pain)

“Replay” by Iyaz

“These last few songs are all on my workout mix and I love the beat of them all! They help me get through my runs and/or other cardio!! Ugh! ”