David Nguyen has been appointed as the new head volleyball coach at the University of North Dakota (UND), following a remarkable four-year tenure at Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU). The announcement positions Nguyen to lead a Fighting Hawks program that has struggled in recent years, having not achieved a winning season since 2017.
Nguyen’s coaching career began when he was hired by FDU in his mid-20s, making him the youngest coach in NCAA Division I volleyball at the time. Under his leadership, the Knights transformed from a team with a dismal record of 10-70 in the Northeast Conference (NEC) over the previous six seasons to a formidable competitor. During Nguyen’s tenure, FDU achieved an impressive 43-15 record in the NEC.
A Culture of Success
Jason Young, FDU’s deputy athletic director, praised Nguyen’s impact on the program. “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,” Young noted. “In Year 1, he takes us to the NCAA tournament. In Years 2 and 3, we’re in the championship game. It was just an incredible four-year run.”
Nguyen’s leadership style is characterized by a calm and composed demeanor, which Young describes as a “silent assassin.” This approach has instilled a winning culture within his teams, helping players maintain steadiness on the court. Young believes Nguyen will bring this same level of success to UND, stating, “He’ll go toe-to-toe with anyone in that conference. I think his volleyball mind is exceptional and his ability to develop is, too.”
Revitalizing the Fighting Hawks
The Fighting Hawks volleyball team has faced challenges since reaching the NCAA tournament in 2017, as they have not won a match at the Summit League tournament since joining the conference in 2018. Nguyen’s track record of turning around struggling programs makes him a promising choice for UND. “I think it’s one of the biggest (turnarounds) in Division I,” Young remarked.
Nguyen’s introduction to the community will be vital as he aims to connect with local volleyball enthusiasts. Young expressed confidence in Nguyen’s ability to enhance community engagement, stating, “He’ll know how to make sure camps and clinics are getting done and kids get connected to the program. It will be pretty special.”
FDU expressed both pride and support for Nguyen’s new role. Young emphasized the positive legacy Nguyen leaves behind, saying, “Fairleigh Dickinson is happy for Nguyen’s new opportunity and happy that he put FDU volleyball back on the map.” He added, “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.”
As UND prepares to officially introduce Nguyen at a press conference, the volleyball community eagerly anticipates the changes he will bring to the Fighting Hawks program.
