Big news in the world of college volleyball that's got fans buzzing – North Dakota has tapped David Nguyen as its new head coach, promising a fresh wave of energy and success for the Fighting Hawks program!
But here's where it gets truly intriguing: Can this rising star take the lessons from his impressive stint at a smaller school and turn them into championships at a bigger stage? Let's dive into the details and see what makes this appointment so exciting.
In Grand Forks, North Dakota, University of North Dakota Athletics Director Bill Chaves made the announcement on Tuesday, December 23, 2025. David Nguyen – pronounced like 'WIN' – has been selected as the 15th head coach of the North Dakota volleyball team. For those new to the sport, this means Nguyen will lead the squad in practices, games, and strategy, shaping the future of a program that's hungry for wins.
Chaves expressed immense enthusiasm about the hire. "We're absolutely thrilled to welcome David as our new head coach for UND volleyball," he shared. "His achievements at Fairleigh Dickinson University were extraordinary in such a brief period. Earning NEC Coach of the Year twice and guiding the Knights to their inaugural NCAA Tournament spot? That's the kind of success we think can translate here at UND."
To clarify for beginners: The NEC is the Northeast Conference, a league for smaller Division I schools, and the NCAA Tournament is the prestigious national championship event where top teams compete – think of it as the college volleyball equivalent of March Madness for basketball.
Nguyen arrives in North Dakota after a stellar four-year tenure as head coach at Division I Fairleigh Dickinson University, where he set numerous records for the Knights. He led them to their first-ever NCAA Tournament berth, clinched the 2022 NEC Tournament Championship, and secured the 2023 regular-season title – all groundbreaking milestones for the program.
"I'm thrilled and deeply honored to be chosen as UND's next head coach," Nguyen stated. "A big thank you to Athletics Director Bill Chaves, Deputy Director Erik Martinson, and the whole search committee for believing in me to steer the volleyball team toward greater achievements."
Under his guidance, the Knights achieved their first 20-win season in the modern era and swept consecutive NEC Coach of the Year awards in 2022 and 2023. His teams also reached three straight NEC Tournament finals and four consecutive conference semifinals, showing a knack for consistent high performance.
"My goal is to give our student-athletes an elite experience, both on the court and in life," Nguyen added. "Together, we'll create a proud legacy for athletes, alumni, fans, and supporters. I'm eager to advance my career and foster a true volleyball community at North Dakota."
And this is the part most people miss – the tangible results: Nguyen's squads produced standout players like the NEC Player of the Year, an AVCA All-American (that's the American Volleyball Coaches Association's highest honor), nine all-conference picks, and numerous all-tournament awards. Plus, the Knights posted their four most successful conference seasons ever during his time.
Nguyen brings over 10 years of Division I expertise, including assistant coaching stints at Coastal Carolina and William & Mary, plus operational roles at Virginia and a student management position at Virginia Commonwealth University.
He earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences from Virginia Commonwealth in 2018. A media introduction event is planned for a future date.
THE DAVID NGUYEN FILE
Position: Head Coach
Hometown: Glen Allen, Virginia
Education: Virginia Commonwealth University (2018)
Family: Nguyen and his wife, Kaylin, are parents to two children.
CAREER IN VOLLEYBALL
AS A COACH
2022-25: Fairleigh Dickinson University (Head Coach)
2021-22: Coastal Carolina University (Assistant Coach)
2019-21: William & Mary (Assistant Coach)
2018-19: University of Virginia (Director of Operations)
2013-18: Virginia Commonwealth University (Manager)
For more on North Dakota volleyball, check out @UNDvolleyball on social media or head to FightingHawks.com.
Now, here's where it might spark some debate: Some might argue that transitioning from a smaller program like Fairleigh Dickinson to North Dakota could be a challenge – after all, higher expectations and tougher competition might test his strategies. Is Nguyen ready to scale up, or could this be a risky move for UND? Others might counter that his rapid rise and proven track record prove he's the perfect fit for innovation. What do you think – will this appointment lead to glory, or is there potential for bumps in the road? Do you agree with the hire, or disagree? Share your opinions in the comments below; I'd love to hear your take!
