BELMONT, N.C. – The Belmont Abbey men's volleyball team wrapped up a season-opening home stand with a 25-16, 25-18, 25-15, sweep over Carolina University Thursday at the Wheeler Center. It was the third consecutive sweep for the Crusaders, who moved to 3-0 on the season. Thursday's contest was the opening match of the season for the Bruins.

HOW IT HAPPENED

• The Crusaders got off to a strong start to open the match by taking an early 8-4 lead over the Bruins.
• The Abbey closed the first set with a 4-1 run that included kills from Gage Giller and Matteo Miselli. Giller finished with six kills and two aces.
• Matthew Maxwell and Jack Walsh recorded double digit assists with 17 and 10, respectively. Maxwell also had nine digs and two aces.
• The Abbey had a strong start to the second set by taking a 6-2 advantage.
• Alex Winiarczyk had six kills to lead Belmont Abbey alongside Giller. 
• Winiarczyk also had the final three kills to close the set. Belmont Abbey pulled away early in the third set thanks to a 7-1 run to open.
• 17 Crusaders saw playing time in Thursday's contest.

UP NEXT

• The Crusaders have eight days off before heading on the road for its first road match of the season against Loyola Chicago at 3 p.m. Jan. 21.
• It is the first of four contests away from the Wheeler Center in January.
• The next home match for Belmont Abbey will be Feb. 2 at 6 p.m. against Benedict College.