LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Senior midfielder Rahim Shalash and junior midfielder Brock Pope have been appointed captains of the Bellarmine University men's soccer team.

Shalash has appeared in 27 games in his career, including 12 last season. The native of Simpsonville, Kentucky, is a two-time ASUN Honor Roll recipient and earned the GLVC Brother Gaffney Distinguished Scholar Award for posting a 4.0 GPA his freshman year.

Pope transferred to Bellarmine from Bradley last season and made a significant impact, tying for third on the team in goals with three even while being a defender. The native of Corinth, Texas, was recognized on the ASUN All-Tournament Team and earned an ASUN Defensive Player of the Week accolade. He battled injury but still appeared in 15 games with 13 starts and logged 1,162 minutes.

"This will be the first time in a while we will not have Greg Fischer as our captain. He was a valuable leader, and we are hoping he left his mark on our newest captains Rahim Shalash and Brock Pope," Coach Tim Chastonay said. "Rahim and Brock were easy choices as captains as we progressed through our spring season. Rahim has great leadership qualities and communicates well with all players and coaches. He is a good bridge between the coaches and players.

"Although Brock has only been with the program a short time, his commitment is a great example to the players. Younger players can learn a great deal about the college game, and what it takes to be successful, from Brock."  

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