NEWARK, NJ — Rutgers–Newark opened the 2026 men's volleyball season Saturday with a competitive tri-match, highlighted by a dramatic comeback victory and a gritty effort in the nightcap.

In the opener against Arcadia University, the Scarlet Raiders fell behind 2–0 before mounting an impressive comeback. Rutgers–Newark found new life in the third set behind freshman Duncan Sturt, who entered the match and helped orchestrate the offense, igniting the turnaround. Michael Suarez led all hitters with 17 kills, while Massimo Roco added 16 kills as the Scarlet Raiders captured the final three sets to secure a five-set season-opening victory.

Rutgers–Newark again faced an early deficit in the second match against MIT, dropping the first two sets. The Scarlet Raiders responded with their strongest stretch of play in the third set, earning a 25–21 win to keep the match alive. MIT regrouped in the fourth set, however, and held off another Rutgers–Newark comeback attempt, closing out the match with a 25–20 decision.

Captain Aleks Kolodziej led the Scarlet Raiders against MIT with 10 kills and nine digs, providing a steady presence on both sides of the ball. Sturt continued to make an impact, dishing out 33 assists in the contest. 

The Scarlet Raiders will hit the road for an NJAC contest with Ramapo College next Wednesday.

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