Brooklyn, NY --- The Brooklyn College Women's Volleyball team enters the 2010 season with much excitement, as Head Coach Joanne Riggs returns six letter winners from a season ago, to go along with six newcomers that will play vital roles in helping the team contend for a CUNY Athletic Conference tournament appearance.

This season, Coach Riggs will rely on junior Caitlin McMullen (Middle Hitter), who played in all 23 matches on the year last season, recording 79 kills, to go along with 31 service aces, 63 digs and a team-best 25 total blocks. “Caitlin has taken on the responsibility as leader for this season. The team will look to her for guidance throughout the year both on and off the court. She is an exceptional athlete who pushes herself every time she steps on the court,” says Coach Riggs.

Along with McMullen, the other returning letter winners that will look to help the Bulldogs fight for a spot in the conference tournament include seniors Gabby Rodriguez (Middle Hitter/Outside Hitter) and Joan Wu (Defensive Specialist) and sophomores Lisenia Rodriguez (Setter), Kathy Chu (Libero/Defensive Specialist) and Electra Telesford (Right Side). G. Rodriguez recorded a team-high 85 kills last season, while L. Rodriguez recorded a team-best 200 assists and 91 digs in her rookie campaign.

Newcomers to the 2010 BC Women's Volleyball team include Amanda Fiore (Setter), Jillian Escobar (Outside Hitter), Manon Bailly (Middle Hitter), Colette Dragon (Right Side), Noelle Benson (Libero/Defensive Specialist) and Maritza Morency (Outside Hitter). Freshmen Fiore and Escobar's experiences at the high school and club levels will be huge assets to the team, as both will look to play important roles this season. Dragon is a transfer from Borough of Manhattan Community College who will look to leave her mark at BC.

Coach Riggs on the 2010 season outlook: “This team has come together quickly. They have all worked hard during the offseason to get into volleyball shape. As a group their intensity and commitment is unmatched. The inclusion of three new freshmen has pushed the seasoned veterans to new heights. The 2010 season should be an exciting one for the players, coaches and fans.”

The BC Women's Volleyball team kicks off the 2010 season on Tuesday, September 7th at 7:00 pm, when the Bulldogs will travel up to Purchase, NY to take on the Panthers of Purchase College in a non-conference match. Brooklyn's home opener is set for Tuesday, September 14th, as BC will play host to conference rival John Jay College of Criminal Justice at 7:00 pm in the West Quad Center Gym.