JOHNSON, Vt.-The Northern Vermont University-Johnson men's soccer program and Head Coach Shane Bufano have recently announced the commitment of Merrick Meetze for the upcoming 2020 season.

Merrick Meetze has signed the necessary paperwork and joins the Badger program from the Old Dominion. A skilled big man, he will provide a huge presence in the midfield. The gritty and hardworking midfielder played his school soccer at Poquoson High School in Poquoson, Virginia. 

Last season in 2019, the Islanders of Poquoson were a regional runner up in Class 2 Region A qualifying for the state tournament where they fell in the State Quarterfinal. On the club scene, Merrick has played for several high-level clubs in the state of Virginia including York Town FC and Old Dominion Soccer Club. During his time with both clubs his 01 teams won their Division 1 League titles for four years straight. Currently, Merrick mans the midfield for Virginia Legacy SC.

Meetze will come into NVU-Johnson this upcoming fall undecided on a major to pursue. "I chose NVU-Johnson because of the location and the smaller school setting. I felt like attending NVU-Johnson would be a great opportunity to further my soccer playing career," said Meetze.

Head Coach Shane Bufano is excited about the addition of Meetze. "Meetze brings a level of physicality that we need as we continue to build for next year. His size in the midfield will be an asset to our program and I look forward to watching his growth throughout his time at NVU."

Merrick Meetze commitment is the seventh commitment for the 2020 season. NVU-Johnson men's soccer will announce additional commitments within the upcoming weeks.