(Photo by Jodi Vosika)

ATLANTA – After backstopping Minnesota to two of the team’s three impressive wins on their southwestern trip, Golden Gophers senior netminder Jack Courington has earned PEARL MCLA Division II Goalie of the Week honors for the period ending March 27.

The Eagan, Minn., native drew the assignment on Friday night against No. 13 Arizona in Tucson and Courington helped stifle the high-powered Wildcat offense. He turned away 17 shots, helping Minnesota post the 16-8 victory.

Courington again got the nod on Sunday afternoon against No. 12 Arizona State in Glendale and put in another solid effort. He stopped 14 balls as the Gophers pulled away for a 16-11 triumph.

On the weekend, he posted a save percentage of 62.0.

“He’s the leader of the defense and the heart and soul of our team,” said Minnesota coach Peter Gosen. “His energy keeps everyone, including the coaches, pushing to be better.”

For earning the PEARL’s Goalie of the Week, Courington 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

Matt Padilla, Soph. – Dominican
In the Penguins 16-11 upset of No. 6 Santa Clara, the Puyallup, Wash., product turned away 16 shots (59.3 sv%).

Jacob Rollins, Fr. – Texas
The Longhorns downed Oregon State and Texas A&M thanks to a combined 43 saves from the rookie.

Will Ruit, Sr. – Central Michigan
The Troy, Mich., product did it all in a 9-2 loss to Michigan State. Me made 30 saves and both scored and had an assist – factoring in on both goals.

Carter Schubert, Fr. – Texas Christian
The Horned Frogs rolled past Oregon State thanks to the Allen, Texas, native, who finished with 21 saves in the victory.

Tyler Schweickert, Sr. – Concordia-Irvine
In just three quarters of action against No. 10 USC, the Tustin, Calif., product made 15 saves (68.0 sv%) in a comfy win.