(Photo by Don Friedell)

ATLANTA – Top-ranked St. Thomas posted a pair of Top 10 victories over the weekend in Denver thanks to the play of rookie netminder Gunner Arens, who was named the MCLA Division II PEARL Goalie of the Week for the period ending Feb. 20.

The Tommies opened the weekend on Saturday against No. 7 Montana at the Denver Broncos practice facility in Englewood, Colo., and Arens turned away 10 of the 16 Grizzly shots on cage in a 12-6 victory.

The Stillwater, Minn., product followed that up on Sunday with 14 saves in St. Thomas’ 14-9 triumph over No. 9 Montana State.

For the weekend, he combined for 24 saves and just 15 goals against, good for a 61.5 save percentage and goals against average of 7.50.

“Gunner has quickly become the backbone of our defense, making all the saves he should and a lot he shouldn't,” said St. Thomas coach Jason King. “As a freshman, he has taken on a leadership role on the best defense in our division.

“He had a phenomenal weekend against some top teams in D-II, holding them both to single digits while collecting double digit saves in both efforts.”

For earning the PEARL’s Goalie of the Week, Arens will receive a prize package from Guardian PEARL, a ball that lasts longer than the rest and never greases. Guardian PEARL is the proud partner of the MCLA.

Pearl Honor Roll

Zac Clark, Junior – Biola
In a loss to No. 20 Loyola Marymount, Clark was superb, turning away 21 saves for a save percentage of 60.0.

Cayden Rogers, Sophomore - Dallas Baptist
The Patriots were able to knock off Oklahoma State thanks to 15 saves and just three goals allowed from Rogers.

Grant Shafer, Junior – Florida Gulf Coast
The Eagles opened the season with three wins at the Battle by the Bay, and Shafer made 50 saves and allowed just 15 goals against.