BOSTON – A week away from first serve of the 2018 season, Suffolk volleyball head coach Scott Blanchard has announced senior Talia Lombardo has been named the sole captain for the 2018 season. 

"Talia will provide invaluable leadership this season," Blanchard said. "She is a tireless worker that has made the coaching change a smooth transition for both the coaching staff and the team." 

Lombardo has been a contributor all over the hardwood throughout her career and steps into a new role in 2018 as the Rams' setter. She has landed in the top three categories in kills per set and assists per set in each of the last three seasons, while consistently being the biggest threat at the service line. 

Last season, the Windham, New Hampshire local was dubbed one of the most feared served in Division III after registering 14 aces in a four-set 3-1 victory over Newbury Sept. 16, 2017. The 14 aces marked a program record and are good for 10th all-time in NCAA Division III history in a four-set contest. 

Lombardo has the chance to seal her spot in the Rams' record book individually, while helping Suffolk make its third GNAC Tournament run this season. 

The new era of Suffolk volleyball begins at the MIT Invitational Friday, Sept. 7 where the blue-and-gold will take on Wellesley at 7 p.m.