Thursday, October 1, 2026
Lawrence was close but yet so far from capturing its first Nassau boys’ volleyball title since 2004 last fall, dropping the Division II county final to Roslyn in four sets.
But the Golden Tornadoes, in what could be longtime coach George Klein’s final year at the helm after three-and-a-half decades leading the program, are stocked with talent and eying the big prize.
“Last year was a really successful season and even though it’s not a daily topic, our kids are looking to complete some unfinished business,” Klein said. “These kids eat, sleep and breathe volleyball. Most of them are playing club. They enjoy every second of being on the court and working to get better.”
Seven of Lawrence’s top eight are seniors and it returned four All-County players including several two-time honorees. Klein said the battle for the crown will be a deep one with Roslyn, South Side, New Hyde Park, Calhoun, Hewlett and Kennedy all serving as road blocks.
“Volleyball is such a fickle sport,” Klein said. “It’s about runs and momentum and being at your best in the biggest moments. Our kids are doing a great job of focusing on one set at a time. It’s a long season and it’s really the best way to handle the grind. Take each match as it comes.”
The only non-senior among the starters is junior Corey Shakur, a 6-foot-4 All-County hitter who moved to the outside after two years in the middle. “His work ethic is as impressive as anyone I’ve coached,” Klein said. “Last year he was one of the top blockers in the county and now he’s going to be a real difference maker on the outside. He serves and passes well and plays smart.”
Skaruk joins senior Elijah Tolley on the outside. Tolley is a two-time All-County hitter with power and accuracy. “He has an incredible vertical and his passing has improved tremendously,” Klein said. “He’s without a doubt one of our leaders.”
Senior right side hitter Jacob Hooks is left-handed and is difficult to defend, Klein explained. Hooks is also coming off an All-County campaign. “He’s so consistent and improved even more during the summer,” the coach noted.
The new starting middles are seniors Tevin Johnson and Karanveer Singh. Johnson joined the team a few weeks into last season and formed a bond while practicing every day. Singh saw limited minutes but is also ready for prime time according to Klein. “Tevin has totally fit right in and his vertical is out of this world,” he said. “Karanveer has stepped up his game to another level.”
Senior setter Mailo Rozsas Catalan is the quarterback on the court and a two-time All-County selection. “He’s one of the best setters in the county with great feet, hands and vision,” Klein said.
Defensively, there’s a one-two punch at libero with seniors Fernando Larios, an All-Conference honoree and a major weapon from the service line, and Sehil Dehoundiyal, described by Klein as “solid as a rock.”
Lawrence upped its fast start to 4-0 with a four-set victory at Hewlett last Friday.
