Bird Earns PAC Offensive POW

NEW WILMINGTON, Pa. - The Presidents Athletic Conference named Monica Bird as the Offensive Player of the Week. Bird collected four goals during Bethany's homecoming week to account for all scoring by the Bison. Those goals led the Bison to two victories over conference opponents in Franciscan and Geneva.

Bird was the only player on Bethany to score in either game. She gave the Bison three leads: 1-0 and 2-1 against Franciscan and 1-0 against Geneva. 

"After the year she had last year fighting to get back on the field [due to injury], it is great to have Monica back on the team and back amongst the leaders," said Head Coach Cody Kibler. "A true leader, a true goal scorer, and an all around good person. She is someone that this team looks to no matter the situation."

Both of Bird's goals against Franciscan came from the same trifecta of Jordan Palmer to Jada Benjamin crossed over to Bird for the finishing touch. Bird's second goal came in the 78th minute to give Bethany the 2-1 lead that turned into a win.

Bird's goals against Geneva were both solo, creating opportunities off of her teammate's shots. Her two goals in the second half gave the Bison a burst of energy that they converted into a shutout victory.

Kibler went on to congratulate Bird further after Geneva, stating that "she is an absolute talent and we are lucky to have her".

Goalkeeper Hope Fair also was recognized by the conference for her performances at goalie. Fair was elected to the honor roll for her two victories, including a seven save shutout performance against Geneva.

The Bethany Bison (6-4-3) will hope to keep momentum during a three game home stretch. Their first opponent will be Allegheny this Saturday at 1 p.m.