King Volleyball Captain Emily McKee ’26 Signs to Play Division I at William & Mary

Cheers filled the upper school gym on Wednesday, November 12, as Emily McKee ’26 signed her National Letter of Intent to play Division I volleyball at the College of William & Mary. Surrounded by family, coaches, teammates, and friends, the celebration honored Emily’s exceptional growth, from learning the sport when she arrived at King in 2019 to becoming one of the region’s top players.

“Today we’re here to celebrate a truly special member of our community,” said Dean of Athletics Micah Hauben. “Emily has lived the King Virtues and been such a positive, supportive presence for everyone in this room. It’s a major accomplishment to reach the Division I level, and Emily’s journey, which didn’t start until she got here to King, speaks volumes about her dedication and the strength of our program.”

A three-year varsity player and two-year captain, Emily has helped lead the Vikings to an undefeated 9-0 record in NEPSAC play this season, contributing 30 aces, 98 points, 1,000+ kills, 10 blocks, 64 digs, and 12 assists. Last year, she played a key role in securing King’s first-ever NEPSAC Class A Championship, capping a three-year run in which the team captured every FAA and New England title while losing just one match.

During the ceremony, College Counselor Emily Prince praised Emily’s leadership on and off the court. 

“Emily picked up volleyball later than most, but her calm confidence and quiet determination have made her an anchor for her team,” Prince said. “She leads with grace and heart; she makes everyone around her better.”

That spirit extends beyond competition. At King, Emily mentors younger students, helping them learn volleyball, navigate the transition to Upper School, and discover their own interests. She also volunteers with the Northeast Volleyball Club’s program for neurodiverse athletes, helping participants build confidence and joy through the sport.

Before signing the document, Emily took a moment to reflect on the milestone.

“I want to thank you all for being here today,” she said. “I really couldn’t have done this without all the love and support from every single person in this room.”

With a countdown from Hauben, Emily put pen to paper, officially committing to the College of William & Mary. Her signing continues King Volleyball’s tradition of excellence, following recent collegiate athletes Caroline Ellis ’25, playing for the University of Mississippi, and Vivi Mansfield ’25, playing for Johnson & Wales University, at the Division I level.

Emily’s story, from a newcomer to a Division I recruit, captures the best of King Athletics, according to Hauben.
“Her success shows what’s possible when talent, work ethic, and community come together,” he said. “We couldn’t be prouder.”