Field hockey forward honored by Big Ten

Kelli Gannon, a sophomore on the Michigan field hockey team, was named co-Big Ten offensive player of the week yesterday.

Gannon was instrumental in Michigan's win over Iowa and Northwestern last week. Against the Hawkeyes on Friday, she scored the game's only goals in Michigan's 2-0 shutout.

On Sunday against the Wildcats, Gannon also ignited the Wolverines' come-from-behind victory.

With Michigan trailing, 2-0, Gannon scored her team's first goal. She also assisted on the Wolverines' final two goals, which were both scored by teammate Amy Philbrook, as Michigan surged to a 3-2 victory.

Gannon has been a welcome addition to the Michigan squad since arriving last year as a freshman. The Escondido, Calif., native was last year's Big Ten freshman of the year, and was also a preseason All-America candidate.

The sophomore leads the team in goal-scoring with nine goals on the season. She also has four assists and 22 points making her the Big Ten's fourth-leading scorer.

Gannon shared this week's award with Michigan State's Bridget Cooper.

Gannon has been a bright spot on a Wolverine team that is enjoying a fine season.

Ranked 11th in the country, Michigan (3-0 Big Ten, 10-2 overall) is tied with No. 8 Ohio State for the lead in the Big Ten standings. Sixth-ranked Penn State trails by one game.

The Wolverines will meet both of those teams next weekend in a crucial homestand.

Michigan hosts the Buckeyes on Friday at 4 p.m., and then welcomes the Nittany Lions on Sunday at 1 p.m.

10-07-98