Katie Dutchman had 18 total blocks in two matches over the weekend for Northwestern.Katie Dutchman had 18 total blocks in two matches over the weekend for Northwestern.

Katie Dutchman Named Big Ten Co-Defensive Player and Co-Freshman of the Week

Oct. 17, 2011

PARK RIDGE, Ill. -- Northwestern volleyball newcomer Katie Dutchman has been named the Big Ten Co-Defensive Player and Co-Freshman of the Week, the league office announced Monday. These are the first weekly accolades of her career.

"Katie played very well for us this past weekend," said Northwestern head coach Keylor Chan. "Her blocking was a pivotal factor in keeping us in the matches and we are excited to see her continue to develop."

Dutchman (Del Mar, Calif./Torrey Pines), a redshirt freshman, racked up 18 total blocks in two matches over the weekend against Michigan State and No. 20 Michigan. On Saturday, Oct. 15 against the Wolverines, the California, native sent back a career-high 11 total blocks, seven of which came during a dominant performance in the third set alone. Dutchman's effort helped the Wildcats rally from a two-set deficit and force a fifth game that was ultimately won by Michigan.

Dutchman also helped the Wildcats by recording three service aces and seven digs in the two matches. Offensively, she ranked third on the team in kills both night with nine against the Spartans and 10 against the Wolverines.

The Northwestern middle blocker shares both honors this week with Purdue's Kierra Jones. She is the second Wildcat to earn Defensive Player of the Week honors this season, joining libero Julie Chin who won the award on Aug. 29 following the season's opening weekend. Dutchman is the first NU player to be named Freshman of the Week since Stephanie Holthus claimed that honor on Oct. 11, 2010.

The 'Cats return to action with a midweek match against and in-state rival and the nation's top-ranked team, the Illinois Fighting Illini. Illinois will visit Welsh-Ryan Arena for the rivalry contest on Wednesday, Oct. 19 at 7 p.m.

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