HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA – The Golden West College men's volleyball team kicked off their 2025 season in dominant fashion, sweeping visiting Antelope Valley College 3-0 (25-11, 25-9, 25-18) in a commanding performance at home on Wednesday evening.

The Rustlers (1-0) set the tone early, delivering an efficient offensive display in the opening set, hitting an impressive .643 with just one attack error. Kai Rodriguez led the charge with 11 kills on a .625 hitting percentage, while Aidan Dubno added six kills. The Rustlers capitalized on their strong serving game, notching 10 aces as a team, with Jay Pearson and Brandon Ison each contributing two.

Golden West continued their dominance in the second set, holding the Marauders (0-1) to a negative hitting percentage (-.208) while maintaining their offensive rhythm. Aidan Powell was particularly efficient, recording three kills on four attempts (.750), and Owen Banner chipped in two kills on three swings.

Antelope Valley found some momentum in the third set, improving their attack percentage to .136, but the Rustlers' defensive effort, led by Rodriguez and Curtis Harper with a combined 11 digs, kept the visitors at bay. Colin Harper and AJ Kuebrich anchored the net with multiple block assists, ensuring Golden West closed out the match decisively.

Setter John Braunstein directed the offense with 11 assists, while Pearson dished out 15 as the team spread the attack efficiently. The Rustlers finished with a .379 team hitting percentage, compared to Antelope Valley's -.062.

Golden West will look to build on their strong start when they hit the road for their next match. Meanwhile, Antelope Valley will aim to bounce back as they continue their early-season schedule.

UP NEXT: The Rustlers will travel for their next contest on Friday, January 31 to LA Pierce for a 6pm start.