University of Tennessee at Chattanooga softball senior catcher Amanda Beltran earned this week's Southern Conference Player of the Week honor after her stellar play during last weekend's Chattanooga Challenge, the league office announced Monday afternoon.
Beltran claims the player of the week award for the first time in her career. It also marks back-to-back weeks in which a Moc was selected as POTW. The last time UTC featured consecutive selections came back in February 2012, both Michelle (Fuzzard) LaCourse.
"We're really excited for that award for Amanda.
We all see how hard she has been working over the last few months," said head coach Frank Reed.
Beltran batted a blistering .583 (7-for-12) with three doubles, a home run and seven RBI over four games in the Challenge. She slugged 1.083%, totaled a team-high 13 bases for the weekend, and blasted a grand slam during a 6-5 win over Indiana State on Saturday.
For the season, Beltran is batting an even .500 (13-for-26) with three home runs, 12 RBI and has totaled 25 bases. She leads the Southern Conference in batting average (.500), slugging percentage (.962), RBI (12) and home runs (3) while ranking second in on-base percentage (.536).
"I've seen how hard she's worked to bring her intensity up at the plate and it's nice to see her compliment the defensive part with the offensive part.
"I think great things are to come for her," added Reed.
Chattanooga will return home next weekend for its annual Frost Classic tournament inside Warner Park and Jim Frost Stadium. For tournament schedule, tickets, and more information, please visit our TOURNAMENT CENTRAL page.