Unger receives conference honor

Following Sunday’s shutout against Central Michigan and Friday’s solid performance in the No. 8 MSU field hockey team’s win at Indiana, senior goalie Elissa Unger has been named the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week.

Unger made seven saves in Friday’s victory and followed that Sunday with six saves in shutting out the Chippewas, 2-0. Monday’s announcement marks the second time this season Unger has been named Defensive Player of the Week.

Unger has had two shutouts this season and is posting a 1.48 goals against average.

Head coach Rolf van de Kerkhof said after Sunday’s game that Unger is playing some of the best field hockey of her career.

“I think she’s played and improved throughout the season, and I think she’s playing her best hockey of her career as a senior goalkeeper, so that’s a joy,” van de Kerkhof said.

The Spartans continue play Friday at Iowa.