RICHMOND, VA. – After leading the Hawks to a 2-0 record on the road, Monmouth University junior defender Raul Garcia was named the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) Defensive Player of the Week by league officials.
 
Garcia, who scored the game-winning goal in the 1-0 win at Hofstra was honored for the first time in his Monmouth career. The junior is the third Hawk to take home weekly honors from the league this season (Marcin Kluz – Aug. 25, Jasen Bottini – Sept. 8).
 
In Tuesday's 2-1 victory at La Salle, Garcia helped a Monmouth defense that allowed just one second half goal to the Explorers. 
 
Garcia was a key component in the 1-0 win at Hofstra. He scored the game's only goal in the 84th minute on a give and go with Kluz. It was Garcia's first goal as a Hawk. He also helped a Monmouth defensive unit that posted its first shutout since last season.
 
Garcia has started all eight games on defense for the Hawks this season. 
 
Garcia and the Hawks return to action on Friday, Sept. 26 when they host Temple at 7 p.m. That game will be broadcast on NBC Sports Philadelphia and FloCollege.