Nadia Cooper has been named as the West Coast Conference Defensive Player of the Week. WSU’s goalie has had a strong start to the season, allowing only two goals in three games while making 11 saves. Her .846 save % ranks second in the conference and her two allowed goals are the fewest.
Cooper, who ranks sixth in WSU history with 168 career saves, has previously been awarded Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Week honors twice. Now the senior becomes the first Cougar to win a WCC award. The Cougs have found a new home in the WCC after the fall of the Pac-12, and they are already making quite a statement.
On Aug. 22, Cooper completed her 15th career shutout against the Montana Grizzlies, making five saves in a 3-0 win. She is no stranger to the spotlight, having previously been named 2021 Pac-12 Goalkeeper of the Year and 2021 Pac-12 Freshman of the Year. The Houston native has also played for the U-17 USWNT and the U-20 USWNT.
“Nadia’s growth over the last four years has been incredible. She started out her career as Pac-12 goalie of the year” head coach Todd Shulenberger said. “She has no fear whatsoever. Her footwork is getting better, her confidence is excelling but this kid is an animal coming off her line.”
Cooper surpassed the 5,000 minute mark during the Cougars 2-1 win against Idaho. She also performed well during their Aug. 15 loss to Purdue, when she saved six of seven shots. The Cougs offense was not able to help her out, and the Cougars lost 1-0.
Cooper’s 28 wins rank fifth in WSU history. Based on her strong start to the season, she is an early candidate to win the WCC goalkeeper of the year award.
