Women’s soccer reclaims top ranking

The Grand Valley State women’s soccer team is once again on top of the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Division II college soccer rankings. The Lakers were ranked the No. 1 team in the country in the preseason rankings, however, after an season-opening loss, they dropped down to No. 12. Ever since, No. 1 GVSU has worked its way back to the top. 

The Lakers have won 17 straight games, along with the GLIAC regular season title. Gannon University was the previous holder of the No. 1-ranking until it lost an undefeated record this past week. 

GVSU topped Malone 6-0 in the first round of the GLIAC playoffs on Tuesday at home, and will take on Ohio Dominican in the semifinals at 7 p.m. on Friday at home.

GVSU defender receives GLIAC honors

Sophomore defender Shannon Quinn has been recognized by the GLIAC as the women’s soccer Defensive Player of the Week. The Grand Rapids, Michigan native was a vital part of Grand Valley State’s shutout victory to end the regular season against Ferris State. The Lakers allowed just one shot on goal to preserve the team’s 12^th shutout of the season. 

The win gave the Lakers an undefeated conference record at 12-0. Quinn has started every match this season for the Lakers, who have allowed just seven goals in 17 games. The 2015 defense ties the GVSU 2013 team for the fewest goals allowed in GLIAC play over the course of a season. 

Laker football drops to No. 17 after loss

After suffering its second defeat of the season, the Grand Valley State football team dropped in the latest American Football Coaches’ Association Division II Top 25 Poll. The Lakers fell to No. 17 in the latest rankings, released Nov. 2, following their 45-31 loss at No. 5 Ashland. 

Ferris State slots in a No. 3, while fellow GLIAC foe Michigan Tech fell to No. 22 following an overtime loss against Tiffin over the weekend. The Lakers next game is on the road on Saturday as they take on Tiffin (5-4, 4-4 GLIAC).

Gallagher named swimmer of the week

Grand Valley State swimmer Emily Gallagher recently earned GLIAC honors as she was named the GLIAC Swimmer of the Week following her performance against Northern Michigan at home on Oct. 31. The junior earned individual wins in the 50 freestyle and the 200 breaststroke, and contributed a strong time in GVSU’s team win in the 400 medley relay.

The Lakers (4-1) next compete at Indianapolis on Nov. 14.