Bridgewater’s Varallo Named Top Goalie

ATLANTA – After backstopping Bridgewater State to an important ranked victory, Bears junior netminder Jonah Varallo has been named the MCLA Division II PEARL Goalie of the Week for the period ending March 10.

Bridgewater State hosted No. 18 Minn.-Duluth on Friday evening and thanks to the Billerica, Mass., native, the Bears posted a victory that should resonate with the selection committee.

Varallo, who is a starting tackle on the Bridgewater State football team, made 16 saves in the Bears 12-8 victory – good for a 66.7 save percentage. He also snagged a ground ball along the way and was crucial in the clearing game.

“He made multiple door step saves to keep UMD off the board,” said Bridgewater State coach Pat Welsh. “Not only did he make the saves when needed, he was also integral in getting the ball out of our zone by directing the clearing game. He actually carried over midfield three times since UMD didn't pressure him.

“My son watched the live stream and the first thing he texted me was that Jonah should get the Grit Bucket – a hard hat that the players hand out after the game to the player most responsible for our win or who showed the most grit. The team gave it to him as I was reading that message.”

As the recipient of the PEARL Goalie of the Week honor, Varallo will receive a PEARL swag bag of goodies that will include PEARL lacrosse balls – the official ball of the MCLA.

PEARL Honor Roll

Glyn Carson, Soph. – UC Davis
The Aggies posted a pair of non-conference wins thanks to the play of the Woodinville, Wash., native who combined for 18 saves and a 62.1 save percentage.

Connor Tilton, Fr. – Air Force
The Houston product made 16 saves for a 70.0 save percentage in the Falcons comfortable win over No. 21 Denver.