David Nguyen has been appointed as the new head coach of the University of North Dakota’s volleyball program, following a successful four-year tenure at Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU). During his time at FDU, Nguyen led the Knights to a remarkable turnaround, achieving a record of 43-15 in the Northeast Conference after the team had previously struggled with a dismal 10-70 record over six seasons.
Transforming a Struggling Program
At just in his mid-20s, Nguyen became the youngest head coach in NCAA Division I history when he took over the FDU program. Under his leadership, the Knights not only made the NCAA tournament for the first time but also reached the championship game in consecutive years, showcasing his ability to instill a winning culture.
“What he was able to do with our volleyball program… we had never made the NCAA tournament, we hadn’t made the playoffs in years,”
said Jason Young, FDU’s deputy athletic director. Nguyen‘s achievements included leading the team to the NCAA tournament in his first year, an accomplishment that had long eluded the program.
Young praised Nguyen’s exceptional volleyball intellect and his ability to develop players, stating, “I think he’s a little beyond his years. He’ll go toe-to-toe with anyone in that conference.” This expertise will be crucial as Nguyen takes on the challenge of reviving the Fighting Hawks, who have not had a winning season since their NCAA tournament appearance in 2017.
Challenges Ahead for the Fighting Hawks
The Fighting Hawks have faced difficulties since joining the Summit League in 2018, failing to win a match in the conference tournament. With Nguyen at the helm, there is hope that his proven track record of success can bring a much-needed turnaround for the program.
Young noted Nguyen’s calm demeanor, describing him as a “silent assassin” who maintains composure rather than resorting to yelling or screaming. He emphasized that this approach resonates with players, who exhibit steadiness during matches. “He was able to instill a winning culture. He’ll be able to do that there, too,” Young added.
In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Nguyen is expected to engage with the local community, fostering connections through camps and clinics. Young expressed optimism about the positive impact Nguyen will have on the volleyball community in North Dakota, stating, “It will be great for that volleyball community.”
As Nguyen prepares for his new role, FDU reflects on his contributions with gratitude. “Fairleigh Dickinson is happy for Nguyen’s new opportunity and happy that he ‘put FDU volleyball back on the map,'” Young remarked. He concluded by highlighting Nguyen’s character, saying, “I loved my time with him. He’s a wonderful person with a wonderful family and an incredible volleyball mind. I’m really happy for him and his family. I think he’s going to do great things.”
The official introduction of David Nguyen at the University of North Dakota will take place at a press conference at a later date, marking the beginning of a new chapter for both him and the Fighting Hawks volleyball program.
