Foresters Continue Building with Addition of Ganon Friend

HUNTINGTON, Ind. – Huntington University head men's volleyball coach Ken Shaw continues to add depth and versatility to the Foresters' inaugural varsity roster with the signing of Ganon Friend, a 6-foot-3 standout from nearby Columbia City.

A utility player capable of impacting the match in multiple ways, Friend brings experience as a defensive specialist, setter and opposite hitter, giving the Foresters another versatile weapon as they prepare for their first season of NAIA competition in 2026-27.

"Ganon is an outstanding recruit who used his gap year to grow stronger, more mature, and even more focused on his goals," said Shaw. "I am incredibly excited to welcome him to our program and can't wait to see the impact he will make both on and off the court."

Friend graduated from Columbia City High School in 2025 where he earned three varsity letters for the Eagles' volleyball program. He capped off his prep career in impressive fashion, serving as team captain during his senior season while helping lead Columbia City to a sectional finals appearance.

His leadership abilities extended beyond the volleyball court. Friend was also a member of the Eagles' soccer program throughout high school and was selected as a team captain during his final season.

Known for his athleticism, competitiveness and willingness to fill any role needed for team success, Friend's versatility aligns perfectly with the culture Shaw is building in Huntington.

The Foresters are entering a historic chapter as the program transitions from club status to varsity competition.

Huntington is scheduled to make its debut as an official NAIA sport on November 12 with a scrimmage at Aquinas before opening its inaugural season in the spring of 2027.

The Huntington University Foresters compete in 19 intercollegiate sports for men and women. In the past decade, Huntington has produced 192 NAIA All-America honors and 698 All-America Scholar Athlete honors. Huntington University is a comprehensive Christian college of the liberal arts offering graduate and undergraduate programs in more than 70 academic concentrations. Huntington has a top quartile ranking in the 2026 U.S. News Best Regional Universities Midwest Rankings.