The publication annually lists the nation's top programs with an individual ranking of 1-30, then groups 31-55 and 56-95. A panel of 120 NCAA Division I, II and III coaches contribute to the rankings based on the potential cumulative impact each class could make over the next four years. This year for the first time, CMU was ranked in the top Honorable Mention category, putting the Chippewas among the top 32-48 classes in the country.
CMU is the highest ranked Mid-American Conference program and one of only two schools that was named a top 95 recruiting class. Ohio earned High Honorable Mention recognition (top 75-95 classes).
The Chippewas' incoming class includes Kalle Mulford (6-4, MB, Simi Valley, Calif.), Kristen Reenders (5-9, L, Grand Haven, Mich.), Jordan Timmer (5-10, S, Lowell, Mich.) and Angelique White (6-2, MB, Detroit, Mich.). Timmer was a 2011 Andi Collins finalist, putting her among the top 73 setters in the country. PrepVolleyball.com ranked White No. 77 on the list of 2012 nationally ranked senior aces.
"We knew this would be our best class yet," said head coach Erik Olson. "Kalle Mulford and Angelique White will be huge for us in the middle, while Kristen Reenders is a super athletic defensive specialist or libero who is going to make a major impact through her career. Jordan Timmer has already been here training with the team since January, but is the most athletic setter we have brought into our program. This is a fun class with some attitude, which will be nice as we build on our first MAC Tournament Championship in program history."
Six (2005, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012) of Olson's eight recruiting classes have been ranked among the top 95 classes.
Currently there are 330 Division I volleyball programs in the country.
