By Robert McKinney, Assistant Athletics Director, Communications

SALEM, Ore. -- Willamette University first-year goalkeeper Pierluca Carnovale (Seattle, WA/Ballard HS) has been named the Northwest Conference Men's Soccer Defensive Student-Athlete of the Week for his performance in goal during the Bearcats' 2-1 overtime win at George Fox University on Thursday, April 8. The victory gave Willamette an undefeated season at 8-0, with all eight matches in the NWC.

Carnovale played the first half against George Fox. He recorded three saves for the Bearcats. He allowed just one goal on a header following a corner kick. For the season, Carnovale owns a 0.75 goals against average with eight saves in 360 minutes. He played one half in all eight games.

"Pierluca has had a great first season with us and has proven that he can perform at the level we need offensively and defensively in order for us to be successful as a team," Willamette Head Men's Soccer Coach Jared Rust said. "I am very happy with his consistent development and am excited to continue watching his success between the posts."

The Willamette defense gave up just four goals during the season for a 0.50 team goals against average. The Bearcats shut out four opponents and never allowed more than one goal in a game.