SMITHFIELD, R.I. -- Bryant volleyball alumnae Arianna Ugolini '26 signed a professional contract with Volley Team Bologna, a member of the Italy Serie B, it was announced last week.

Ugolini will once again wear the rossoblù colors after completing a collegiate career that included one season at St. Francis Brooklyn and three seasons with the Black and Gold. Having grown up through the club's youth system, the Bologna-born outside hitter returns to the organization that helped shape her athletic and personal development, bringing with her a wealth of experience, maturity, and leadership gained overseas.

"Being at Bryant helped me grow my confidence, both on and off the court," Ugolini said. "I learned the importance of lifting, taking care of my body, and doing all the little things that allow you to perform at your best. I also learned what it means to be part of a team with a strong culture. Every year, we set goals together and had traditions that brought us closer and strengthened our relationships beyond volleyball."

Ugolini put together one of the greatest careers in DI program history in three seasons in Smithfield, graduating fifth in kills (1,126), first in kills/set (3.57), second in service aces (133) and first in aces/set (0.42), She saved her best for the 2025 season, posting 419 kills (3.99/set) on her way to America East Player of the Year honors, the first player to earn league player of the year honors in DI program history. Ugolini was a three-time All-America East First Team selection, the 2025 America East Fall Scholar-Athlete and a 2025 AVCA Division I All-America honorable mention.

"I grew so much during my years at Bryant, while also having the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people and create memories that I'll always carry with me," Ugolini said. "I'm excited for the upcoming chapter but Bryant will always be one I'll be extremely grateful for and that I'll remember it in a familiar way, thanks to the culture that the coaches always made sure we had among the team.""