WALTHAM, Mass. – Two-time All-Northeast-10 Conference honoree Rachel Bruno (San Diego, Calif./Francis Parker HS) will be one of the Bentley University women's volleyball captains for the second straight year, serving in the role along with classmates Emily Barthelmes (Buchanan, N.Y./ Hendrick Hudson HS) and Mariana Boyer (Arvade, Calif./Broomfield HS).

"We are excited with the team's selection of Rachel, Mari and Emily as our 2019 captains," said sixth-year head coach Joey Pacis. "Each captain brings their own leadership style on and off the court and collectively, we expect them to lead the team towards our season's goals."

 Bruno has distinguished herself both on the court and in the classroom since her arrival at Bentley in 2016. The data analytics and business studies major has led the conference in hitting each of the last two seasons with her career mark of .334 second best in program history. Bruno was a second-team All-NE10 honoree in 2017 and 2018, an NE10 All-Rookie team selection in 2016 and has twice been voted to the Academic All-Northeast-10 team.

"Rachel did such a great job last season as one of our co-captains that it wasn't a surprise she was selected again," commented Pacis. "She's motivated, energetic and is quick to jump-in when a teammate needs a hand.  As an All-Conference selection each of her last three seasons, I expect Rachel to continue her high-level of play her final season."

Barthelmes, who has split time as a libero and a defensive specialist throughout her career, led Bentley in digs last year (316 with a per-set average of 3.40). She had double-figure digs 16 times with a high of 27 at Pace Nov. 2. Barthelmes is the second member of her family to captain a Bentley team, following her brother Brad (track, 2016-17).

"I expect Emily's work ethic on the court and in the classroom, and attention to detail to rub off on the squad," said Pacis. "As a teammate, she has always held her teammates to a high standard and will continue this season as one of our tri-captains."

Boyer appeared in 35 sets last season, and averaged 1.29 kills, 1.43 digs and 1.40 points. Her season featured her first career double-double Oct. 14 against LIU Post.

"Mari has always been the 'glue' of our squad and fully-encompasses what it means to be a Bentley volleyball player," praised Pacis. "She reads situations well and keeps her teammates connected and focused."

Bentley will travel to the west coast to compete in the season-opening California State San Marcos Cougar Classic Sept. 6-7. Opponents will include St. Martin's (Washington), Eastern New Mexico, Western New Mexico and the host team.