Mayle named MIAA Defensive Player of the Week for women's soccer

OLIVET, Mich. – Olivet College senior defender Jenna Mayle (Ionia) has been named the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) Defensive Player of the Week for women's soccer.

Mayle was the anchor of the Comets' backline, which posted 1-0 shutout victories over College of Mount St. Joseph (Ohio) and Millikin (Ill.) University to open the 2013 season. Late in the game against MSJ, she caught an opposing player from behind and used a perfectly-time slide tackle to take the ball off the feet of the player, who was on a breakaway attempt. Mayle also had a couple key tackles in the win against Millikin.

"We are extremely proud of Jenna and she is deserving of this honor," said Olivet Head Coach Hans Morgan. "She was a rock for us defensively this weekend including a couple of game changing tackles. Jenna played great this weekend, but she will be the first to tell you she did not do it alone. We received fine defensive performances and goalkeeping from many players all weekend. The defense doesn't always get the press, but I think it is terrific she is being recognized as the leader of our defense."

Mayle and the Comets return to the field Wednesday afternoon against Rochester College. The game is being played at Ultimate Soccer in Pontiac, beginning at 3 p.m.