Mikalah Dale Signs with University of Mount Olive After Stellar Run at Lenoir Community College
Mikalah Dale Signs with University of Mount Olive After Stellar Run at Lenoir Community College
KINSTON, N.C. — From digging volleyballs in small-town gyms to digging deep in the classroom and on the court, Mikalah Dale’s story continues—this time in Trojan green.
The 5-foot-6 defensive specialist from Princeton High School has officially signed to play volleyball at the University of Mount Olive, a nationally respected NCAA Division II program just a half-hour from her hometown.
“This is a dream come true,” Dale said. “Mount Olive is a really good team—they were second in the East last year—and it’s close to home, just 30 minutes away. It gives me that hometown feel, and that’s important to me.”
Dale’s path wasn’t paved by shortcuts or favors—it was carved through sheer willpower. Her journey through Lenoir Community College has been defined by early mornings, late nights, and an unwavering commitment to improvement.
“I was in the gym two hours before practice, two hours after practice, every single day,” Dale said. “Even when we didn’t have required practice, I was in that gym working. Coach Barnes was there with me every step of the way. My teammates have been there to help me out, and especially my parents—they’ve supported me through everything and made my dream possible.”
That relentless grind helped Dale evolve into one of the most versatile and impactful players to wear a Lady Lancers jersey. She appeared in all 25 matches for LCC this past season, compiling 296 digs (3.29 per set), 269 assists (2.99 per set), 23 service aces, and an impressive .813 points per set while playing nearly every role on the court.
“She played every position on the floor for us,” said head coach David Barnes. “Setting, outside hitter, middle, libero—very few players can do that, especially at the collegiate level. But she did, and no matter where we needed her, she said, ‘Yes sir,’ and gave her best effort.”
Barnes, who began recruiting Dale during her high school and club volleyball days, said her impact was immediate and lasting.
“She worked super hard EVERY day at practice,” Barnes said. “She gave you 100 percent at practice, 100 percent in games, followed instructions, and just made herself coachable. She’s the type of player anyone would want. She’s been unbelievable as a kid, a player, and a teammate.”
Dale’s leadership wasn’t limited to the volleyball court—it stretched throughout the LCC athletic program.
“I had a firsthand view of how hard Mikalah works,” said LCC Athletic Director Ryan Meadows. “She’s one of the true leaders in our athletic program, not just in volleyball. She’s a really special girl going to a really special place. This is what junior college athletics is all about. We want our players to move on, and Mikalah is a perfect example of that.”
The goal, Dale said, was always clear.
“Absolutely, this was always the goal,” she said. “I’ve been dedicated to this for two years. LCC has been unbelievable. It’s been my second home. David and Shelly Barnes have been the best coaches I’ve ever had. My teammates supported me through everything. Honestly, it’s been amazing and I’ve learned so much.”
From Princeton to Kinston to Mount Olive, Dale’s next chapter is rooted in hard work, family values, and the love of the game. And while her jersey color may change, the mindset that got her here never will.
