WEST LONG BRANCH, NJ- Monmouth University linebacker John Sieczkowski (Manalapan, NJ/Manalapan) and wideout Reggie White Jr. (Randallstown, MD/Milford Mill) have been named Big South Players of the Week, league officials announced Monday afternoon.
Sieczkowski earned Big South Defensive Player of the Week after giving the Hawks an eight point advantage on an interception return in the fourth quarter. Sieczkowski registered just two tackles on the afternoon, but his biggest contribution came in the fourth quarter when he intercepted Bryant quarterback Dalton Easton deep in Bryant territory and returned it five yards for a touchdown that put the Hawks up 24-16 with 11:32 to play in the fourth quarter. It was his first interception of the year and his second career interception. Both of Sieczkowski's tackles were for losses, including one for a loss of four yards.
"John has been one of our most consistent defensive players over the last few years," said Monmouth Head Coach Kevin Callahan. "It is good to see him recognized by the conference for his play last Saturday."
White Jr. was named Crons Brand Freshman of the Week after his career day against the Bulldogs, which culminated in his game-winning touchdown with 1:16 remaining. He broke the tie open on a screen pass , dodging through defenders then turning on the jets for a 50 yard touchdown, his second of the day. Earlier in the game, White Jr. gave the Hawks a 14-0 lead when he hauled in a 16 yard fade pass from Cody Williams in the second quarter. The redshirt freshman recorded his first career two-touchdown game and finished with 85 yards receiving, also a career best. He currently is second on the Hawks in receptions and yardage, with 21 catches for 235 yards.
"Reggie had his best performance to date on Saturday against Bryant," said Callahan. "As he becomes more comfortable on the field we are beginning to see his ability to make plays."
Monmouth, which wrapped up its non-conference schedule with the Bryant win, opens league play this Saturday at Charleston Southern.
