LA GRANDE, Ore. – Eastern Oregon Volleyball is excited to announce the addition of six new members to the team with their 2026 recruiting class. The class features 3 transfers and 3 incoming freshmen.
Here's what Head Coach McLean Morehead had to say about this year's recruiting class, "We're really excited about this recruiting class and the group we've put together. It's a great mix of size, athleticism, versatility, and experience, and more importantly, it's a group that aligns with our culture. They're competitive, coachable, and driven, and we believe they'll make an immediate impact while continuing to elevate our program over time."
The Mountaineers are coming off a stellar 32-3 season that included a Cascade Collegiate Conference regular-season and tournament championship. The Mounties were ranked No. 1 in five of the eight NAIA Top-25 Coaches' poll. Eastern Oregon's season was decided in a five-set semifinals loss by back-to-back-to-back National Champions. EOU will look to bounce back with seasoned veterans while adding six more new faces to the group.
2026 Eastern Oregon Volleyball Recruiting Class
Olivia Chilton
Kelso, Wash. | Bellevue Community College | Middle Hitter
WHY EOU:
"I chose Eastern Oregon volleyball because of the strong, competitive, and consistent program that has been built there. I was also really drawn to Eastern because of Kaki and the kind of coach she is. I admire how she pushes her players to become better student-athletes while also encouraging them to be kind, supportive people off the court. Watching the team and seeing the energy and passion they bring is so inspiring. From the moment I stepped on campus, I felt welcomed and supported, like I was already part of a family. It made me feel motivated to grow and become the best version of myself, which is why I knew Eastern Oregon was the place where I want to finish my collegiate volleyball career."
Coach McLean added
"We're really excited about adding Olivia to our program. At 6-2, she brings a great combination of size, athleticism, and mobility in the middle. She has the ability to impact the match both offensively and at the net defensively, and we believe she fits very well with the style we play.It's also special to welcome her as a legacy, with her mom having played here, which makes this addition even more meaningful for our program. "
Ellie Johnson
Melba, ID | Melba HS | Setter
WHY EOU:
"I chose Eastern Oregon because from the very first day I stepped on campus and into the gym, it felt nothing but right. Eastern was an opportunity that found me when I wasn't even looking for it, but I am so incredibly grateful that it did. The chance to play at Eastern came at exactly the right time and I knew I had to say yes. I'm beyond thankful for the opportunity Coach Kaki gave me when she did. I feel so blessed to now be part of a program that truly prioritizes team over self, and is filled with such amazing people!"
Coach McLean added
"Ellie is a true all-around player. Earning Player of the Year honors shows her ability to impact every part of the game, not just as a setter but defensively as well. We love her competitiveness and believe she has the tools and volleyball IQ to contribute early in her career."
Sky Nesser
North Powder, OR | Powder Valley HS | Outside Hitter
Why EOU:
"I chose Eastern Oregon University because it felt like more than just a place to play volleyball it felt like home. The culture of hard work, the close-knit community, and the commitment to excellence both on and off the court showed me that this is where I can grow not only as an athlete, but as a leader and a person. I wanted to be part of a program that pushes me to compete at the highest level while also investing in my future beyond the game. At EOU, I'm not just another player on a roster, I'm part of a family building something bigger than ourselves. I feel so blessed to play for Kaki. Time to Mount up!"
Coach McLean added
"It's always special to bring in a local athlete like Sky. There's a level of pride that comes with representing your community, and she embodies that. With her athleticism and length, we believe she has the potential to have a great career here both in volleyball and track & field."
Nola Bondarczuk
Middleton, ID | Middleton HS | Opposite
WHY EOU:
"I chose Eastern Oregon because the program felt like a family, not just a team. The moment I stepped into the gym, I felt the bond, the culture, and the standard that Coach Kaki and the team have built. I'm incredibly excited and blessed to join a high-level, competitive team!"
Coach McLean added
"Nola has a really high ceiling. She's extremely athletic, has a great vertical, and is just scratching the surface of what she can become. Having her here early has been a big advantage, and we're excited about her future in our program."
Bailey Robertson
Sisters, OR | Vanguard University | Outside Hitter
WHY EOU:
"I chose Eastern Oregon because of the competitive environment and strong team chemistry. Not to mention the amazing coaching staff and their dedication to the players both on and off the court. I believe that this program is truly something special and I am so excited to become a part of it!"
Coach McLean added
"Getting Bailey back into our program is a big pickup for us. She's someone we've believed in since high school, and her versatility and experience will add a lot to our group. With three years of eligibility, she has the opportunity to make a significant impact here."
Sidney Friesen
Sprague, OR | Western Washington University | Libero
WHY EOU:
"I chose Eastern Oregon because of its competitive program and strong sense of family. Coach Kaki has built something truly special by challenging her players to be their best both on and off the court. From the moment I stepped on campus, I felt at home, incredibly welcomed, and it quickly became a place I could see myself calling home.
What stands out most is the consistent commitment and hard work that is put into this program. The dedication shown by both the players and coaches to succeed is something I truly admire. I'm confident that Eastern Oregon will provide me with the opportunity to grow not only as an athlete, but also as a person while furthering my education. I'm very grateful and excited for this opportunity to play for Coach Kaki, compete with this group of girls, and represent Eastern Oregon."
Coach McLean added
"Sidney is a great addition for us at the libero position. Her quickness, feel for the game, and ability to step up in key moments really stand out. She's a competitor, and we're excited for what she'll bring to our gym."
