Oct. 12, 2009

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Kentucky sophomore middle blocker Gretchen Giesler was tabbed the Southeastern Conference’s Defensive Player of the Week it was announced Monday.

Giesler continues to be a major factor in UK’s offensive scheme while developing into one of UK’s top defensive performers at the net. Giesler posted 10 blocks in seven sets for an average of 1.43 blocks per set this weekend in Kentucky’s two wins. The clip is well above her average of team-leading 1.00 blocks per frame. Her presence at the net also helped force 33 errors by UK’s two opponents.

In addition to her blocking presence she matched her career-high twice this weekend with three digs. Giesler additionally set a career-high with three assists in the win over Georgia. For the weekend she posted 2.00 kills per set on a .444 attack percentage in helping UK achieve 17 or more wins for the fifth consecutive season.

The honor from the league office is the first of Giesler’s career. This marks the third consecutive week a UK player has earned a weekly honor from the conference office. Previously, senior BriAnne Sauer was named the Defensive Player of the Week and junior outside hitter Sarah Mendoza was the Offensive Player of the Week just last week. Earlier this season senior setter Sarah Rumely claimed Offensive Player of the Week honors.

Giesler and the Wildcats will hit the road next, traveling to Mississippi State and Alabama this weekend. UK is set to meet the Bulldogs at 8 p.m. ET on Friday night.

Stay tuned to UKathletics.com for the most up-to-date news, highlights and features from the Kentucky volleyball team.