Newport’s Lawrence commits to Ohio State

Newport Harbor High senior Kyle Lawrence said he has committed to play volleyball at Ohio State.

Lawrence, a 6-foot-2 setter, was also considering Hawaii and Rutgers, but made up his mind after visiting the Buckeyes’ campus last weekend. He stayed with Ohio State volleyball played and attended an Ohio State hockey game against Notre Dame during the visit.

Lawrence said he had played for two years for the Balboa Bay Club before switching to the Santa Monica Club in North Hollywood.

“It was definitely worth the drive for coaching and recruiting,” he said.

Lawrence played as one of two setters for the club team’s 6-2 set, helping Santa Monica earn a No. 5 ranking in California for the boys’ 18 division.

Lawrence said he’ll work to try to become Ohio State’s back-up setter next year, but there is a chance he might redshirt the season.

— Steve Virgen