Bernich and Cafferty Claim Pearl Awards

ATLANTA- Ethan Bernich from New Hampshire and Brendan Cafferty from Miami took home their respective Pearl Goalie of the Week honors following standout performances over the weekend. Bernich, from Exeter, NH, lead his Wildcats into hostile territory to take on the Georgia Bulldogs.  In a back and forth game Bernich helped keep the Wildcats in the game racking up 20 saves on the night as well as being active in their 10-man ride despite the 14-10 loss. 

Of Bernich, New Hampshire Head Coach Sean Houlahan said, “Ethan provided us with an opportunity to compete with a very talented Georgia team. Throughout the game, he made some remarkable saves, ultimately ending up with 20. His commanding presence on the field was evident throughout the game and was a major reason for the success we had.”

Brendan Cafferty made his first start for the Hurricanes against Georgia Southern.  Cafferty made 15 saves and allowed six goals for a save percentage of 71.43%.  The Oxford, CT helped limit the Eagles to only one goal in the second half propelling Miami to an 8-6 win.

Miami Head Coach Bryan Walsh commented, “Brendan, making his first career start made incredible save after incredible save, holding Georgia Southern to one second half goal. Him locking down the fourth quarter was instrumental in getting the win.”

As recipients of the PEARL Goalie of the Week honor, Bernich and Cafferty will each receive a PEARL swag bag of goodies that will include PEARL lacrosse balls – the official ball of the MCLA.

PEARL Honor Roll

Division I

Emerson Smith, Clemson- The Charlotte native made eight saves and allowed three goals in the Tigers dominant win over Florida.

Matthew Oversteg, Grand Canyon- Made 13 saves and allowed three goals in the Lopes win over Oregon State.

Division II

Eric Olsen, Air Force- Made 14 saves and allowed five goals helping power the Falcons past Denver.

Alex Acker, Florida Atlantic- Tallied 22 saves to eight goals against over two games for a save percentage 73.3% helping propel the Owls to two wins.