September Student-Athlete Spotlight: Mary Barnes, Pablo Vargas

RALEIGH, N.C. (September 29, 2025) – Wake Tech Athletics is proud to recognize two outstanding student-athletes as part of its Student-Athlete Spotlight for the month of September. This monthly honor highlights individuals who excel not only in their respective sports, but also in the classroom and the community. Mary Barnes (Volleyball) and Pablo Vargas (Men's Soccer) are the honorees for the month of September.

 "Although many of our student athletes are off to fantastic starts this semester at Wake Tech, we are proud to highlight a men's team and women's team student athlete of the month," Athletic Director Robin Pate said. "These two young people represent the culture Wake Tech Eagles try to portray throughout their class work and training and competition on the court and field. Congrats to Mary and Pablo on being our September 2025 Student-Athlete Spotlights!"

Mary Barnes, Volleyball

Barnes is off to a great start in her sophomore campaign for Wake Tech volleyball. As a setter, she's tallied 147 assists through 11 matches played this season. She's also recorded 13 service aces and 65 digs. 

"Mary has shown what it means to be a student-athlete," volleyball head coach Liz Reif said. "She puts her education first, but also pushes her teammates to maintain a high level. I'm so proud of her and her resilience."

The Garner, N.C. native was appointed to the Student-Athlete Leadership Council by Reif for this academic year, and was elected the council's President by her peers. 

Pablo Vargas, Men's Soccer

Vargas has a team-high eight goals and five assists to start his sophomore season. He recently set a new career-high for goals in a single game when he scored four against Central Carolina Club on September 26. 

"Pablo has really stood out this month with the way he has impacted our team," men's soccer head coach Brandon Kind said. "Scoring goals and creating assists is natural for Pablo, but also putting in challenges and defensive work has set the tone for the guys up top. His character is a real example and it's been exciting to watch him so far this season."