By Robert McKinney, Assistant Athletics Director, Communications

SALEM, Ore. -- Willamette University soccer player Jake Oetinger (Fy., D, Gilroy, CA/Christopher HS) has been chosen as the Northwest Conference Men's Soccer Defensive Student-Athlete of the Week for his efforts in victories over George Fox University on Saturday, Oct. 22 and Pacific University on Sunday, Oct. 23. The Bearcats defeated George Fox 2-0 and downed Pacific 3-1. Willamette, which entered the weekend ranked #13 in NCAA Division III, improved to 12-1-2 on the season, 10-1 in the NWC.

Oetinger played all 90 minutes in both games over the weekend. He helped lead the Willamette defense, which allowed just six shots (three in each game) with only one shot on goal. GFU was held without a shot on goals, while Pacific placed just one shot on target.

This year, Oetinger has played in all 15 games with 14 starts. He has scored two goals and one assist in addition to providing exceptional defense. The Bearcats have allowed just 16 goals in 15 games. Willamette has registered five shutouts.

"Jake had two 90-minute performances that were close to flawless the entire way through," Willamette Head Men's Soccer Coach Sam Adelman said. "His laser focus mentality and execution have been pillars of our defensive tactics all season. He's deserving of recognition at the end of the season for the Newcomer of the Year, but he's still got more performances to put together before we get there."

Willamette is scheduled to take on Pacific Lutheran University on Saturday, Oct. 29 in Tacoma, Washington. Game time is set for 2:30 p.m. (PDT).