UST’s Arens Claims PEARL Award

ATLANTA – After helping the Tommies clinch the top seed out of the UMLC West with a big rivalry win, St. Thomas senior netminder Gunner Arens is the MCLA Division II PEARL Goalie of the Week for the period ending April 20.

Sixth-ranked St. Thomas hosted No. 12 North Dakota State on Friday night in Saint Paul and, thanks to the play of the Stillwater, Minn., native, the Tommies were able to take a 14-7 victory and lock up a bye in the upcoming UMLC tournament.

Arens turned away 15 shots in the victory – good for a 68.2 save percentage – that improved St. Thomas’ record to 9-2. For the season, he has recorded a 60.1 save percentage with 13 ground balls and two caused turnovers.

“Gunner has been the backbone of our defense for the last four years,” said St. Thomas coach Jason King. “His experience showed last week through his communication and command of the defense along with making a few saves he probably shouldn't have.”

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

PEARL Honor Roll

Alex Acker, Florida Atlantic
Combined for 19 saves in two games in the SELC tourney while also scoring a goal.

Sean Carroll, St. John’s
Turned away 16 shots to beat Minn.-Duluth and send the Johnnies to the UMLC tourney.

Justin Cole, Virginia Tech D-II
Stopped 19 shots leading the Hokies past Appalachian State and into the ALC semis.

Simon King, Rice
Posted 14 saves and three ground balls in the Owls big win over Texas State.