Put the NAIT OOKS Men's Volleyball program in the "contenders" category for the 2023-2024 season. In what appears to be a historic recruitment class, combined with some returning OOKS who boast multiple ACAC all-stars, including four 5th year returners, the OOKS have their sights on a deep playoff run. 

"We were able to add a combination of experience, immense size & physicality, top-end skill, and youthful energy to our group, and we are thrilled to have each one of them in a NAIT OOKS Uniform this fall," said Head Coach Jordan Taylor.

Let's meet the 2023 Recruit Class:

MASON GORSKI - Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan 

Gorski, 21, transfers to NAIT after spending the last two years at The Kings University, where he was named ACAC Rookie of the Year in 2022, ACAC North Player of the Year, and CCAA All-Canadian this past season. With three years of eligibility remaining, Gorski solidifies the setting position for the OOKS for years to come.

FINN HOWARD - Christchurch, New Zealand

Standing at 6 foot 7, the hulking international middle blocker is tough not to notice. Howard, a member of the New Zealand National Team, is expected to make an immediate impact this season. "Given his physical tools and overwhelming size at the net, Finn was a highly sought-after international recruit not just in Canada but in the USA as well. To be able to attract and get a player like Finn to come to NAIT, only speaks volumes of the quality of our institution, our team, and the NAIT athletics department as a whole," says coach Taylor.

JOSH WATSON - Christchurch, New Zealand 

Watson, listed at 6 foot 3, is a high-flying outside attacker who transfers to NAIT after a strong rookie ACAC campaign at Northwestern Polytechnic, as well as spending time with the New Zealand National Team Program. Watson is expected to have instant chemistry with the OOKS, reuniting with childhood teammate and fellow countryman Finn Howard in OOKS silks. 

WYATT TURNBULL - Spruce Grove, Alberta

Turnbull is no stranger to the ACAC, having spent the last four years with the Concordia Thunder, where he amassed an outstanding 794 points as one of the most feared attackers in the North division. Now entering his 5th and final year of eligibility, Turnbull transfers to NAIT and will be expected to add to the OOKS dynamic offence, which was already the top-scoring team in the ACAC last season, averaging 15.5 points/set in 2022/2023. 

JOSH ANNETT - Sherwood Park, Alberta

OOKS add another big body in this class, with local 6 foot 8 middle blocker Josh Annett. A multi-sport athlete and a member of the NAVC GRIFFINS, which is nationally recognized as one of the top clubs in the country, Josh is a welcome addition to the OOKS Roster.

KAI HILDEBRANDT - Morinville, Alberta 

Standing at 6 foot 3, Hildebrandt brings position versatility as he has the ability to play all three attacking positions, while also bringing an infectious work ethic and youthful energy to the OOKS. A true-blue-collared player, Kai will contribute greatly to the OOKS hard-working culture. 

EMMETT NEULS - St. Albert, Alberta

Neuls transfers to NAIT after playing for the Concordia Thunder last season. The 6'1 back row specialist brings with him an elite receiving platform, as well as multiple years of high-performance experience with the Team Alberta Provincial Team Program.

The OOKS regular season is set to kick off Friday, October 20th, with preseason matches leading up the weeks beforehand.