Cal State Northridge defender Robert Pate (Chatsworth, Calif./Chatsworth HS) was a key figure in the Matadors' win over previously-ranked #10 UCLA last Saturday, earning him Big West Player of the Week honors. The victory marked the first win for CSUN over the Bruins in school history.
The sophomore spearheaded a Matador defense that held the explosive UCLA offense in check throughout the match. The Bruins managed just four shots, two of which were on goal, in becoming the fourth opponent to be shut out by Cal State Northridge this season.
Pate also figured in the scoring as he provided the assist on Camilo Rojas' goal in the 80th minute.
Others nominated: Eric Branagan-Franco, Cal Poly; Chris Pontius, UC Santa Barbara