Wingate University freshman goalkeeper Pablo Jara (Santiago, Chile) was named the SAC Tournament MVP, leading the Bulldogs to the tournament title by notching three shutouts last week. Jara collected nine saves in the three matches, while also coming up big in penalty kicks in the semifinals.
Jara got his week started with two saves in the 2-0 win over Lenoir-Rhyne in the quarterfinals. He collected four saves in the semifinals against LMU, which ended in a 0-0 draw and went to penalty kicks. Jara saved the second and third attempts by the Railsplitters, allowing only one goal in four attempts as the 'Dogs advanced with a 3-1 PK win. Jara capped his week with three saves in the 2-0 win over Queens in the title match.
Jara was named the 2015 SAC Freshman of the Year, while earning first team All-SAC honors. He leads the conference in save percentage and goals-against average, while collecting 10 shutouts. Jara has played every minute in goal this year for the Bulldogs.
Wingate is back in action Friday, taking on Lander at 7 p.m. in the NCAA regional quarterfinals at Pfeiffer University. The winner advances to play the top-ranked Falcons Sunday afternoon.
