Easley Earns Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Week Honor

NEW ORLEANS - Jessica Easley of Appalachian State University women's soccer was named Sun Belt's Defensive Athlete of the Week, the conference announced on Tuesday.

Easley earns a Sun Belt weekly award for the first time in her career. She's the third Mountaineer with Lauren Burke (DPOTW; 8/28) and Kat Greer (OPOTW; 9/25) to register a weekly honor. 

The Waxhaw, N.C., native recorded an assist on the Apps' first goal from a service kick to Jessica Peters in the 2-0 win over Coastal Carolina on Saturday to start 3-0 in conference action for the first time since joining the Sun Belt and improve to 6-4-1. 

"Jess is a resilient young woman," head coach Sarah Strickland said. "To have recovered from two ACL tears at the beginning of her career, change positions from forward to defense and then redefine herself as a team captain and leader is truly remarkable."

Easley has certainly stepped up her game in conference action, as she has recorded at least one point in the first three games. The senior had zero points in non-conference play and is now tied for fifth with five points and first in assists in league action. 

"I'm so happy for Jess and her teammates that battled with her to earn this recognition," Strickland continued.  "I'm so thankful for all the coaches and staff that supported, Jess, Kat and Lauren's nominations this year."

Easley and the Mountaineers will look to stay undefeated in conference play on Friday against Texas State at 7 p.m. at Ted Mack.