Arutian gets scholarship to Cal Lutheran

Keaton Arutian, a starting setter for SBCC in 2015, has received an academic scholarship to play on Cal Lutheran's new intercollegiate men's volleyball squad.

"I'm excited to be part of a brand-new program and feel honored to help build their new volleyball team," said Arutian.

The former Dos Pueblos High standout has a 3.47 GPA and will major in marketing communications at Cal Lutheran in Thousand Oaks. The Kingsmen played club volleyball the last four years and will now compete as an independent in NCAA Division III.

Arutian led SBCC with 420 assists (6.5 per set) as a freshman. His best matches came early in the year when he notched 51, 39 and 41 assists in wins over Grossmont, Palomar and Irvine Valley.

Arutian said he enjoyed his years at SBCC.

"My experience here was great and I felt it was a necessary step to be taken before attending a 4-year university," he explained. "I do not think I was prepared to go straight to a 4-year after high school."

Coach Matt Jones said Arutian worked hard every day in the gym.

"He has a competitive desire that will serve him well at the next level," noted Jones. "I believe his experience at SBCC will provide him with the leadership tools  that will be needed by an upstart program at Cal Lutheran. This is a great opportunity for Keaton to go be an immediate impact at the next level on the court as well as continue his education at a great school.

"I and the rest of the coaching staff wish Keaton the best of luck next season."