The Dordt Defender men’s volleyball team has earned a spot in the latest NAIA National Volleyball Coaches’ Poll, released Wednesday, March 25.
Dordt checks in at No. 14 in the rankings after improving to 20-7 on the season. The Defenders have won three consecutive matches and collected 29 points in this week’s voting, edging into the Top 15 behind Bethel (Indiana), which sits just ahead with 38 points.
Head coach Chad Hanson says the recognition reflects the team’s work so far, but the focus remains on continued growth.
“We are honored to be recognized for the body of work that our guys have put into this season, especially coming off a successful week of conference matches. There are still many great opponents remaining on our schedule, so we plan to keep our heads down and continue growing in our competitive play,” Hanson said.
At the top of the poll, The Master’s (California) holds the No. 1 spot, receiving all seven first-place votes. Park (Missouri) is ranked second, followed by Saint Xavier (Illinois), Mount Mercy (Iowa), and Campbellsville (Kentucky), rounding out the top five.
The Heart of America Athletic Conference is well represented in the poll, with Park (No. 2), Mount Mercy (No. 4), Missouri Valley (No. 6), and William Penn (No. 9) all inside the Top 10. Several others — including Grand View, Morningside, Ottawa, and Missouri Baptist — are also receiving votes.
Dordt will look to build on its momentum this weekend with a pair of home matches. The Defenders host Clarke on Friday night, March 27, followed by a matchup with Grand View on Saturday, March 28.
