The Benedictine Mesa Men's Volleyball team kicked off their 2025 season with an impressive home-opening victory against Dordt University on Friday evening. The Redhawks swept the Defenders in three sets, with final scores of 25-18, 25-18, and 26-24.
Set 1 Recap
The opening set was a high-energy battle as both teams traded points early. Benedictine's starting lineup featured standout performances from
Landon Fuller,
Dapre Rogers, and setter
John Jakaitis. Fuller and Rogers delivered crucial kills, while Jakaitis orchestrated the offense with precision.
The Redhawks found their stride midway through the set, capitalizing on Dordt's attack errors and a strong defensive presence at the net. A block by
Josh Beymer and Fuller proved pivotal, shutting down Dordt's offense and helping Benedictine claim the first set, 25-18.
Set 2 Recap
Benedictine carried their momentum into the second set, striking first with a kill by Rogers. While Dordt showed flashes of resistance with contributions from Cade Schmidt and Joel Van Groningen, Benedictine's balanced attack and defensive blocks, led by
Trevor Weinert and
Jack LeDuff, kept the Redhawks in control.
Landon Fuller continued to shine with multiple kills, while an ace from Rogers extended the lead. Despite a late push from Dordt, Benedictine maintained their composure and secured the second set with a decisive kill by LeDuff, 25-18.
Set 3 Recap
The third set proved to be the most competitive of the night. Dordt fought hard to stay alive, with key plays from Schmidt and Lance Vermeer keeping the scoreline close. Benedictine responded with standout kills from Rogers, Fuller, and LeDuff, as well as a service ace by Fuller.
Strategic plays and relentless energy from the Redhawks ultimately wore down Dordt's defense. The match was sealed with a kill from Rogers and a final Dordt attack error, giving Benedictine a 26-24 victory in the third set and completing the sweep.
Key Performances
Looking Ahead
The Redhawks will take their momentum on the road as they head to North Dakota for their next matchup against Jamestown on Thursday, February 6.
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