BOSTON, Mass. -- Simmons volleyball looks to continue its success in the 2012 season under the guidance of 2011 Great Northeast Athletic Conference Volleyball Coach of the Year Alesia Vaccari. The Sharks, who had their most successful season in program history last year, finished fourth in the conference after falling to Emerson College in the GNAC semifinals.

The Sharks lost four seniors to graduation, including offensive powerhouse Meaghan Flynn (Laguna Beach, Calif.) and captains Kate Fionte (Andover, Mass.) and Morgan Powell (Orange, Mass.). "We lost some of our offense with Flynn but have talented returners and several freshman who are looking to step up into that role," said Vaccari.

Returning for the Sharks is senior setter Rachel Dufault (Westford, Mass.), who will anchor the Sharks offense and provide leadership on the court. Senior outside hitter Kelly Last (West Haven, Conn.) will add depth and quickness, while junior defensive specialist Sandy Lor (Fitchburg, Mass.) will provide consistent ball control. Rossi Fish (North Attleboro, Mass.) and Caroline Boyd (Wilbraham, Mass.) will deliver key blocks for the Sharks in the front row.

Joining the Sharks in 2012 are six newcomers, among them freshman middle hitter Raeann Nesta (Niantic, Conn.) and freshman outside hitter Brittany Hill (Milford, Mass.), both of whom will create a more dynamic offense and increase the competitiveness of the roster. The Sharks will look to these new faces to keep each practice focused and high-tempo.

"We are very excited for our season to begin and to see what the team can do with some of the competition that is ahead of us. We have a very competitive schedule this season, which should prepare us to be stronger in GNAC competition," said Vaccari.

The Sharks open their 2012 campaign on Friday, August 31st at 5:00 p.m. when they travel to Springfield College for the Springfield Invitational. "Our season opener is against a team that finished in the elite eight last season, so it is a great way to start and set the tone for our program," said Vaccari.