JAYSON VASSALLO EARNS NJCAA D3 NATIONAL PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Middlesex College goalkeeper Jayson Vassallo has been named the NJCAA Division III Men's Soccer National Player of the Week for the week of September 5.

A sophomore from South River, Vassallo has been stellar in goal and instrumental in helping the Colts appear in this week's NJCAA National Poll as well.

"Jayson has been working very hard since last winter and he deserves this recognition," said Middlesex College Men's Soccer Head Coach Javier Velasco. "He has shown leadership on and off the field. He keeps the team organized and has earned the trust of his teammates. I am very proud of Jayson."

On opening day, Vassallo posted a shutout against Salem Community College in a hard-fought 1-0 win. He followed that up with an impressive performance at Ocean County College when Middlesex upset the Vikings, who were ranked #10 in the nation at the time.

In the third game of the season, Vassallo suffered an injury with the Colts tied against undefeated Northampton. Prior to the injury, he recorded three saves in the match.

For the week, Vassallo was 2-0 in net with 12 saves, allowing just two goals on 14 shots against stiff competition.

This is the second year in a row the Middlesex Men's Soccer program has produced a National Player of the Week. Last season, George Magnandi earned the honor in the first week of October.

Middlesex College returns to action on Saturday, September 17 when they take on Sussex CC at home. Kickoff is set for 12:00pm.