WALTHAM, Mass. – Seniors Celia Cristofoli (Fort Collins, Colo./Hudson HS (Ohio)) and Shannon Kelly (Hyde Park, N.Y./Franklin D. Roosevelt HS) have been named the captains of the 2017 Bentley University women's volleyball team, coach Joey Pacis announced.

"We are excited to have both Celia and Shannon represent our squad as Team Captains for the upcoming season," said Pacis, who is in his fourth season leading the Falcons. "(Assistant coach) Kristine (Mickelson) and I will rely on these senior leaders to keep our team focused and composed as we navigate the challenging season."

Celia, also a co-captain in 2016, is in her second season as a Falcon libero. She totaled 493 digs last fall, averaging 4.56 per set, and also led Bentley in aces with 36. She had at least 20 digs nine times with a high of 27 twice, Sept. 9 against West Chester and Sept. 25 against St. Michael's.

"Celia brings a year of leadership experience and a continued desire to work hard, both on- and off-the court," praised Pacis.

Kelly, an outside hitter, has totaled 381 kills the last two seasons, including 201 last year when she averaged 1.95, and has had at least 200 digs each of her first three seasons in a Bentley uniform. Her average in that category has climbed annually, from 1.86 to 2.44 to 2.82.

"As a junior last spring, Shannon took on the team organization and communication without much guidance," stated Pacis. "This natural-leadership quality was recognized by her teammates and ultimately lead to her being selected."

Bentley opens its 2017 season this weekend by hosting the Hoffman Memorial Tournament.