Aug. 25, 2008

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - Senior defender Jamie Alvis earned Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week honors for her outstanding play in No. 19 Illinois' 2-1 overtime victory against No. 22 Missouri on Saturday. Alvis received the award for the first time in her career.

The Cypress, Calif., native played the entire match on the back line for the Illini and made some impressive stops against the Missouri frontrunners. Alvis piloted Illinois' defense to a first-half shutout against the Tigers, not allowing a shot on goal.

The Illini return to action on Friday, Aug. 29 at 7:30 p.m., hosting Iowa State in their first home match as part of the Illini Challenge Cup presented by Gameday Spirit and Dish Network. Pitt and Dayton will precede Illinois game at 5 p.m. on Friday, while the tournament will wrap up on Sunday, Aug. 31 with a consolation match at 11 a.m. and championship match at 2 p.m.