ATHERTON, Calif. - The men's volleyball team kicked off its 2025 season on the road as they took on DII opponent Menlo College last night.

The first kill of the season belonged to Akira Davies but not before the Oaks jumped out to the early 13-5 lead. 

Simpson reeled off three straight points on two Menlo miscues and an ace by Francis Gates. 

However, the Oaks went on a 6-1 run to take the commanding 20-10 lead before the Red Hawks reeled off three straight points on a bad set by Menlo, a kill by Flavio Mercado, and a block by Nathan Richards 

But the Oaks held onto the first set 25-16 victory to take the match lead. 

The Oaks drew first blood but the Red Hawks tied the game at three on an ace by Akira Davies and kills from Shelton and Mercado. 

However, the Oaks regained the lead and never looked back as they took the 20-12 lead. 

Simpson did not go down without a fight as they pulled within six to make it a 22-16 game as they outscored Menlo 4-2 on a few Menlo miscues and a kill by Mercado. 

However, the Oaks held onto the set two 25-17 victory to take the 2-0 match lead as they looked to close it out in set three. 

Menlo came out firing in set three as they jumped out to the early 8-0 lead before a kill by Mercado halted the rally to put Simpson on the board. 

Simpson could not overcome the early deficit as the final two kills of the night came from Mercado before the Oaks sealed the straight-set victory, 25-17. 

Mercado had the big swings on the night as he posted a team-high 12 kills to go along with four digs. 

Freshman Micah Nakasato had a solid collegiate debut as he posted a team-high 22 assists and eight digs. 

Simpson looks to bounce back tonight as they take on DII opponent William Jessup at 6 pm. 
 

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