Lakers add Middle Blocker for 2026 season

North Bay, ON – Nipissing Lakers Men's Volleyball is proud and excited to announce the commitment of Mateo Nunez Kruus for the 2026 season and beyond. 

Kruus is a middle blocker hailing from Ottawa, ON. Mateo is currently finishing his second and final year with the Algonquin College Wolves of the OCAA before transferring to Nipissing next fall.  

Mateo, on how exciting it is to sign with Nipissing - "The opportunity to join the Lakers family is something I'm really looking forward to, I'm very excited to play at a higher level." 

"I am a super motivated individual, in constant pursuit of improvement. In terms of volleyball, I consider myself a versatile athlete, someone who is always a ball of energy, and a firecracker for the team. I believe I have an aggressive offensive style of play, and a disciplined defensive style of play," Kruus said when asked to describe his playing style and skills. 

Kruus' career accomplishments include being named the Algonquin Wolves Men's Volleyball Rookie of the year for the 2024-25 season. Mateo was also named to the OCAA Men's Volleyball All Rookie Team, and OCAA Men's Volleyball Second All Star Team in the 2024-25 season.  

"I look forward to joining the Lakers and working towards making a positive impact on and off the court. I want to help move the program forward, and I am excited to work to refine my volleyball skills and continue my learning in the classroom," Kruus said when asked about expectations for himself and the team. 

Mateo began playing competitive volleyball in 18U, playing for the Ottawa Mavericks before moving to OCAA play with Algonquin.  

When asked why he chose Nipissing, Kruus said "I chose the Lakers because I strongly believe in the team, coaching staff, academic program, and beautiful location. Everyone on the team has made me feel welcome, and I had an amazing experience exploring the nature around North Bay."