JOHNSON, Vt.-The Northern Vermont University-Johnson men's volleyball team opened up the 2021 season against Elms College in two New England Collegiate Conference matches on Saturday afternoon in Carter Gymnasium.

The Badgers were beaten in both matches on the day losing to the Blazers 0-3 in the first matched followed by another 0-3 sweep in Saturday's finale. 

The Blazers took the first match by scores of 25-13, 25-12, and 25-14. The Badgers were led by Ryan Willette who recorded three kills on 13 total attacks. Wyatt Moberg and Dominic Phelps each added two kills while Jason Madrid led the Badgers in assists with seven. 

Jeremy Torres led the show for the Blazers with seven kills, six service aces and two digs. Carlos Mercado also handed out 12 assists in the contests. 

With the first loss of the day the Badgers fell to 0-1 on the season and in conference action. 

In the second match of the afternoon it was the Blazers who took three sets by scores of 25-8, 25-11, 25-16. Willette led the way with four kills while Iquwl Shakur say his first appearance adding three kills. Moberg contributed a team high 8 digs and Madrid contributed eight assists. 

Torres continued to be impressive as he earned eight kills to lead the Blazers to the win and to 2-0 on the year. 

NVU-Johnson men's volleyball will travel to Springfield College on Friday, March 19 to face Springfield College.