By Robert McKinney, Assistant Athletics Director, Communications

SALEM, Ore. -- Willamette University goalkeeper Shelby Sawyer (Jr., GK, Marysville, WA/Bio Med Academy) has been named the Northwest Conference Defensive Student-Athlete of the Week for her efforts as the Bearcats defeated Eastern Oregon University 17-6 in the season-opener on Saturday, Feb. 19. The Bearcats led 7-0 after one quarter and held a 12-2 lead at halftime on their way to the victory.

Sawyer registered nine saves for the Bearcats against the Mountaineers. During the game, Sawyer and Willamette's defenders limited Eastern Oregon to 20 total shots, including 15 shots on goal.

"Shelby had a great game," Willamette Head Women's Lacrosse Coach Sarah Lautenbach said. "She faced back-to-back shots and was asked to find the open player in the clear with the team a player down on the field.

For her career, Sawyer has accumulated a 10-3 record, provided 114 saves, and earned an 8.93 goals against average. She has played in 15 games and has started 11 of Willamette's last 12 contests.