SMITHFIELD, R.I. - Bryant University women's tennis head coach
Barbara Cilli has announced the hiring of
Natalia Vela as an assistant coach ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Vela returns to Bryant after a tremendous four-year career as a player with the program from 2022-26, winning back-to-back Ohio Valley Conference titles in 2025 and 2026.
"Natalia was a standout player and captain for the Bulldogs, and it was her strong leadership and competitive drive that helped shape our team's success," said Cilli. "We are all really excited and grateful to have her back and are looking forward to this next chapter with her as a part of our staff."
Vela was named to the All-OVC Singles Second Team and All-OVC Doubles Team in her senior campaign after posting a 21-8 record in doubles play and a 13-8 record in singles play.
As a junior, Vela was named to the All-OVC Singles First Team and All-OVC Doubles Team following a 21-5 record in doubles play and a 16-11 record in singles play.
Additionally, Vela and her doubles partner,
Maria Jose Hernandez, finished 10
th in the ITA New England Regional Doubles Rankings in both the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons.
Overall, Vela compiled a 64-30 record in doubles play and a 50-38 record in singles play during her time as a Bulldog. She graduated from Bryant in 2026.
Women's tennis begins its 2026 fall schedule hosting the Bryant Invitational on Sept. 12 and Sept. 13. Providence, Stonehill and Holy Cross are set to compete alongside the Bulldogs.
