NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Renee Shultz has made a big impact on the Yale volleyball program since arriving on campus in the fall of 2018. She'll take on an even greater role in her senior season. Shultz was recently elected captain of the 2022 Bulldogs following a team vote.
 
"I am very excited and honored to be elected captain," Shultz said. "I know that this is a huge responsibility and honor, and I am ready to take on the role, especially with the other seniors and the rest of the team by my side. I hope to show and build on my leadership skills with the team's best interest at heart, to contribute to the fun we all have through volleyball, and to work towards another successful season."
 
Shultz, who came to Yale from Glenmoore, Pa., has appeared in 144 sets for the Bulldogs. This fall, she had 87 digs and nine service aces. In 2019, she appeared in 64 sets, tied for fifth on the team with 15 service aces and helped the Bulldogs win an Ivy League championship.
 
"Renee will be a fantastic captain," said Yale head coach Erin Appleman. "She has always been a great mentor and leader during her career. I'm excited about the 2022 season with Renee as our leader."
 
One of the Bulldogs Shultz will be mentoring is her younger sister Cara, a first year at Yale.
 
The role is not new to Shultz, who has served as captain of past teams she has played on. She's also benefited from the leaders during her time at Yale.
 
"I have learned so much from the volleyball alumnae who came before me and served as such great examples of what a true captain and leader should be," Shultz said. "Over the course of this past season, I think I took advantage of opportunities to show my leadership and support the team, so I'm excited to build on that and have a great final season next fall."