Junior middle blocker Chiara Spain, known as "Kiki" by teammates, has been named the next captain of the three-time defending Ivy League champion Yale women's volleyball team.  

"Kiki Spain is going to be a fantastic captain for the 2020 squad," Yale head coach Erin Appleman said.  "She is a natural leader, and has been so instrumental in the program's success."

Spain, a San Diego native, earned the Coaches' Award after her sophomore season and finished with 90 kills, 242 attacks and 53 total blocks.  As a first-year, Spain finished second on the team with 54 total blocks.

"I am very confident in this group and extremely excited about everything we can achieve," Spain said.  "It's an honor to have these women as teammates."

Prior to Yale, Spain played at the highest levels in high school and club, competing for Torrey Pines High School and at the prestigious Wave and Coast volleyball clubs.

The Bulldogs in 2019 won their 11th Ivy League title in program history and finished 10-2 in conference and 15-8 overall.