Nov. 9, 2009

RICHMOND, Va. - Freshman libero Koala Matsuoka turned in one of the most productive defensive backcourt performances in George Mason women's volleyball history on Friday night against William & Mary, and for her efforts the Colonial Athletic Association recognized her as its Rookie of the Week on Monday.

Matsuoka contributed 29 digs as part of the 3-1 victory over the Tribe. It was both a career high for the Wahiawa, Hawaii native, as well as the highest total by a Patriot player since 2005. Her tally tied the fourth-highest single-match dig total in Patriot history.

Against VCU on Saturday night, she added 15 more to her total of 204 on the year, part of a team-leading 3.46 digs per set.

With a berth in the CAA Championship already in hand, Matsuoka and the Patriots close out the 2009 regular season this Saturday at home against James Madison. First serve at RAC Gym is set for 7 p.m.