By Robert McKinney, Assistant Athletics Director, Communications

SALEM, Ore. -- Pierluca Carnovale (Jr., GK, Seattle, WA/Ballard HS) has been chosen as the NWC Men's Soccer Defensive Student-Athlete of the Week for his efforts in Willamette 4-1 victory over Colorado College on Thursday, Sept. 1. The game was the season opener for the Bearcats, who moved to 1-0 on the season.

Carnovale recorded four saves in the win over the Tigers, as Colorado College claimed its only goal on a penalty kick. The Bearcats built a 3-0 lead on a trio of goals in the first 26 minutes. After Colorado College cut the margin to 2-1 late in the first half, the Bearcats shut down the Tigers throughout the second half. WU added an insurance goal with just over nine minutes remaining.

During his Willamette career, Carnovale has played in 26 games (18 starts) and has provided Willamette with 72 saves. He owns a 14-4-1 career record.

In their next game, the Bearcats will host Claremont-Mudd-Scripps (Calif.) on Friday, Sept. 9 at Sparks Field with kickoff set for 8 p.m. (PDT). Prior to the game, Pacific Lutheran University and California Lutheran University will play on Sparks Field at 5 p.m.