DePaul University Athletics
BIG EAST Names Scandora Defensive Player of the Week
10/11/2010 12:00:00 AM | WOMEN'S SOCCER
Oct. 11, 2010
CHICAGO - Michelle Scandora has learned how to play defense---in a hurry.
After three games at center back, Scandora on Monday was named the BIG EAST Conference Defensive Player of the Week.
The junior who has been a midfielder throughout her college and high school careers helped anchor a DePaul defense that racked up back-to-back shutouts over the weekend.
In a 2-0 victory over BIG EAST playoff contender Rutgers last Friday, Scandora and fellow defenders Rebekah Roller, Beth Perry and Kylie Nordness did not allow a single shot on goal.
In Sunday's 1-0, double overtime win over Seton Hall, Scandora & Co. blanked the Pirates for more than 106 minutes and only allowed three shots on goal.
"I'm really honored, but I'll accept this on behalf of the whole team," Scandora said. "Our defense has gotten better the last couple of weeks, and it's not only the defenders. We've had to defend all over the field."
Scandora moved into the back line during the Oct. 3 game against Syracuse when Casey Mercurio---BIG EAST Defender of the Week on Sept. 13---was sidelined with an injury.
"I used to play sweeper when I was 12 years old," Scandora said. "Going to center back is a completely different position for me, and you have to stay really connected with the other three backs.
"There's a lot more pressure on you to make sharp passes and the right decisions.
"It helps to have a solid back line that already knows what to do. The more I play it, the more I like it."
DePaul (10-4-2, 5-2-0 in the BIG EAST) has only given up seven goals in its last 10 matches and has five shutouts in that span.
In the Blue Demons' current five-game winning streak, they have allowed just three goals.
"Michelle plays an instrumental role on defensive and attacking corners and was outstanding over the weekend," said DePaul coach Erin Chastain. "Michelle and our entire back line did a great job of shutting down our opponents and limiting their dangerous chances.
"I am really proud that Michelle was able to step into a new role and play so well."
The Blue Demons will be shooting for a school-record sixth win in a row Friday at Providence.
