FAIRFAX, Va. – Freshman defender Sarah Hardison was honored by the Atlantic 10 Conference Monday being named the women's soccer Rookie of the Week. It is the first weekly honor for Hardison.

“Sarah has had extraordinary presence on the field as a freshman and has been a solid team player all season long,” commented head coach Diane Drake. “She is a natural forward who is playing in a position at center back for our team and has transitioned into the position with incredible ease. She is very deserving of this award.”

Hardison helped Mason to a 1-0 shutout over George Washington on Friday. The Hamilton, Va., native and the Mason defense held the Colonials to just one shot in 90 minutes, and none on goal. The victory marked the seventh shutout of the season for the Patriots, including four against A-10 opponents, which ties for best in the league, as Mason improved to 4-2 in A-10 action.

Mason returns to the pitch on Friday, November 1 to open its final regular season road swing at Saint Joseph's. Game time is slated for 7 p.m.