By Robert McKinney, Assistant Athletics Director, Communications

SALEM, Ore. -- Willamette University senior goalkeeper Mason Kelliher (Wellington, N.Z./Wellington College) has been chosen as the Northwest Conference Men's Soccer Defensive Student-Athlete of the Week for his efforts in Willamette's shutout wins over Pacific University and George Fox University on Saturday, Sept. 28 and Sunday, Sept. 29. The Bearcats defeated the Boxers, 4-0, in Forest Grove, Oregon, and downed the Bruins, 2-0, at Sparks Field.

Kellifer recorded complete-game shutouts against both opponents for a 0.00 goals against average during the week. He controlled the 18-yard box, was a key participant in Willamette's defensive possession with many touches on the ball, and registered a total of three saves.

This season, Kelliher has a 0.67 GAA, four solo shutouts and one shared shutout. In his career, he has achieved a 16-4-4 record with nine solo shutouts, two shared shutouts and a 0.73 goals against average. He owns a solid .822 career save percentage.

The Bearcats will return to action on Saturday, Oct. 5 at the University of Puget Sound. Game time in Tacoma, Washington, is set for 12 p.m (PDT).