For the first time in the program’s history, since joining the OUA/USports, the Nipissing Lakers men’s volleyball team has signed two local athletes in setter Jude Caruso and outside hitter Ben Franz.
Caruso, who is from Callander, is making his way to Nipissing after wrapping up his career with the NBYVC Lakers, the Northern Chill, and the St. Joseph-Scollard Hall Bears senior boys team.
“Being able to sign with the Lakers is a huge accomplishment for me. Playing university volleyball has been a goal of mine since I started volleyball,” Caruso said.
“Words can’t explain the pure joy and excitement of being able to continue my volleyball career with an amazing team and coaching like the Lakers.”
For Caruso, the combination of athletics and academics, plus playing for his hometown university and team made the decision to join the Lakers and Nipissing a perfect fit.
“The biggest reason why I choose Nipissing is that I get to continue my athletic career at a higher level, and I get to do it at home. To be able to one day play in front of my family and friends at home is truly a dream come true,” he stated.
Lakers head coach Eric Yung can’t wait to work with Caruso as he has seen strong progress in his game over the last few years.
“We are excited and proud to bring in another local athlete. Jude is the ideal student-athlete who constantly strives to improve both on and off the court. He has steadily improved his game over the last two years and has taken a giant step this past season with NBYVC Lakers,” Yung said
Caruso will be enrolling in the commerce program when school begins in the fall.
Franz suited up for the Chippewa Raiders and NBYVC Lakers this past season as he wraps up his high school and club career before joining Nipissing.
“I am super excited to sign with Nipissing. Volleyball has been a part of my life for most of my life and I am honoured to be able to continue my journey in university,” Franz said.
Franz is excited to work with the coaching staff as he looks to improve his skills on the court.
“The biggest expectation that I have is personal improvement," said Franz.
"I am hoping that the coaching staff will be able to work with me one on one to develop technical skills,” he explained. “I am also hoping that I will be able to step up as a leader in the coming year. This might be hard as a freshman, but hopefully I can prove myself as a good leader.”
Franz has been part of success on a personal and team level, both in the classroom and on the court.
Yung is excited about bringing in not only a local athlete, but also one that will be a strong part of the program’s future.
"It has been seven years since we last signed a local athlete and we are thrilled to welcome Ben to our program. With a 6-foot-9 wingspan and dynamic jumping abilities, Ben has the potential to excel at this level,” Yung stated.
“Ben prides himself with his academics and is student of the game, we look forward to watching Ben grow for years to come."
