PORTLAND, Ore. - Aurora Hammerstedt was named NWAC Defensive Player of the Week for October 20-26.

The sophomore led Portland to a crucial 1-0 victory over Lane to keep their playoff aspirations alive with just one game remaining. The sophomore midfielder play a critical role defensively for limit Lane to eight total shots and five on goal, earning the 1-0 shutout and three points. The Panthers got a goal in the 25th minute and were able to keep Lane off the board the rest of the game.

"Aurora moved 2,500 miles to play soccer at PCC in 2025 and has been nothing but our defensive rock for us for two years," said head coach Shawn Bundy. "She has played holding mid for most of the season, but returned to being center-back last week because we had been struggling defensively. Aurora is one of our captains, a spectacular nursing student and plans continue her college soccer career after PCC."