Crouch Named SEC Defensive Player Of The Week - AuburnTigers.com - Auburn University Official Athletic Site

Crouch Named SEC Defensive Player Of The Week It marks Crouch's first-ever conference honor

Junior Liz Crouch

Sept. 21, 2009

AUBURN, Ala. - Junior libero Liz Crouch was named the Southeastern Conference's Defensive Player of the Week for her efforts in the team's 1-1 finish this past weekend, the league office announced Monday.

It marks Crouch's first conference honor and the first time in Auburn volleyball history that the team has had more than two honors during a season. Teammate Katherine Culwell has earned two Freshman of the Week honors so far this season.

"I'm very proud of Liz's persistence so far this season, battling through an injured back," Wade Benson, head volleyball coach, said. "She has been able to improve her skills year to year and shows a great sense of leadership and toughness on the court. I'm confident that she will continue to shine as one of the best liberos in the conference."

Crouch, a New Orleans native, tallied a career-best 31 digs in the Tigers' 3-0 win over Mississippi State on Friday. That total marks a new Auburn three-set record and was the most recorded digs in the conference this season. Crouch's performance also helped limit Mississippi State to just a .050 attack percentage, the second-lowest percentage allowed by the Tigers this season. Auburn (9-4, 1-1 SEC) leads the conference in opponent attack percentage with .164.

In addition, Crouch recorded a team-high 14 digs in the 3-1 loss to Alabama on Sunday. Her 6.43 digs per set average on the weekend improved her overall average to 4.00, which is fifth-best in the conference.

"I'm honored to be recognized and I'm happy that I could contribute in the team's success on Friday," Crouch said.

Auburn returns to the Student Activities Center for the first time in three weeks when the Tigers host SEC West rival LSU at 6 p.m., Friday. The match will be an "All Auburn All Orange" event and admission is free.