Rock Hill, S.C.----Wingate University sophomore Florian Walcher has been named the Varsity Gems South Atlantic Conference men's tennis Player of the Week, league officials announced Monday morning. Walcher earns Player of the Week honors for the second time this season and fourth time in his career.

Walcher had another huge week, as #17 Wingate swept past Montevallo before dropping a tight 4-3 match at #2 Columbus State. Walcher went 2-0 at number one singles, while also going 2-0 at number two doubles for the Bulldogs. His week was highlighted by knocking off the nation's top-ranked singles player.

Walcher started his week by teaming with Carlo Rosselini for a 6-3 win at two doubles against Montevallo. He then added a 6-3, 6-3 victory at number one singles. Walcher and Rosselini picked up a big 6-4 win at number two doubles against the second-ranked Cougars as the 'Dogs claimed the doubles point. Walcher then picked up a massive 6-4, 2-6, 6-0 win against the nation's top-ranked player at number one singles.

The reigning SAC Freshman of the Year, Walcher is 5-0 at number one singles this year. In addition to his victory over the nation's top-ranked player, Walcher is also 2-0 against NCAA Division I opponents this season. The sophomore is also 5-1 in doubles play this season.

Wingate is back in action Saturday, traveling to Coker to open SAC play at 11 a.m.