Atherton, CA-Another day, another highly touted matchup of GSAC men's volleyball programs. The conference is home to some of the best teams in the nation and today's matchup between the Oaks and Mustangs did not disappoint. While the Oaks may have fallen by a final score of 1-3, each set came down to the final few points. On top of that, the Oaks had three true freshmen earn the starting nod. It was a solid showing for a team filled with young, upcoming talent.
Young Oaks Earn Their Stripes
Coming into today's matchup the freshmen pair of Alijah Bermudez and Wojciech Nowak had been in the starting lineup for much of the year. Yet, Menlo's starting setter William Lawler would be inactive for today's match leading to fellow freshman Andrew Copp being thrust into the starting lineup. This would be Copp's first playing time all season long and it would come against the top rated team in the entire NAIA. With a marquee opponent in town, Copp performed admirably. He led the Oaks in assists with 28 while also adding four digs and a block assist.
Meanwhile, Bermudez would lead Menlo with 12 digs on the defensive side of the net. Nowak was also his usual, impactful self with eight kills, four assists and 11 digs. Nowak has become an exciting prospect for the team; one that will likely make plenty of plays in his Menlo career.
Up Next…
The Oaks will now prepare for a continued stretch of home games with the next being a matchup against the Hope International Royals. Last season the Oaks handled their matchups with the Royals well winning both meetings via 3-0 sweeps.
Menlo College is currently a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), and the Golden State Athletic Conference (GSAC). To learn more about Menlo Athletics visit www.menloathletics.com or follow Menlo Athletics on Instagram (@menloathletics), X (@MenloAthletics) or Facebook (Menlo College Athletic).
