Oct. 7, 2007

Football: Punter Ben Nowicki Named Gateway Special Teams Player of the Week

    St. Louis, Mo. -- Sophomore punter Ben Nowicki (Gilbert, Ariz.) was named the Gateway Conference's Special Teams Player of the Week for his performance against Southern Illinois, the league office announced on Sunday.

    Against the Salukis, Nowicki had four punts for an average of 46.8 per kick and placed two inside the 20-yard line in YSU’s 24-17 defeat at Southern Illinois. Nowicki had punts of 42, 55, 46 and 44 yards. One of his punts was downed at the SIU two-yard line.

    Through six games this season, Nowicki is averaging 37.6 yards per kick on 25 attempts. He has a long of 57 yards and has pinned opponents inside the 20-yard line on 10 occasions.

    Missouri State quarterback Cody Kirby was named the conference's offensive player of the week while Southern Illinois linebacker Chauney Mixon was tabbed the Defensive Player of the Week.

    The Penguins return to action on Saturday when they play a non-league game against Southern Utah. Kickoff at Stambaugh Stadium is set for 4 p.m.