Oct. 4, 2010

PHILADELPHIA - Following a 2-0 week, La Salle's Ryan Richter (Southampton, PA/William Tennent) and John McCarthy (Cinnaminson, NJ/Northeast Catholic) were named the Atlantic 10's Player and Rookie of the Week, respectively.

Richter, who shares Player of the Week honors with Fordham's Marcus Axelsson, picked up his first accolade of the season after lifting the Explorers to two straight 1-0 wins with game-winning goals in both matches. His winner against Saint Joseph's came with just 29 seconds remaining in the first half and he once again scored a first half goal that proved the game winner against Temple.

The senior leads the squad in goals (5), points (11) and shots taken (41). He ranks second in the Atlantic 10 in goals and points, just behind Duquesne's Simon Gomez with six and 13, respectively. His 41 shots (5.12/game) is tops in the conference.

McCarthy added to what has been a terrific rookie campaign by picking up his first two collegiate wins, along with the second and third shutouts of his young career. He stopped four shots at Saint Joseph's and made seven saves against Temple. His goalkeeping proved the the difference particularly against the Owls, as he kept them off the scoreboard despite the Owls outshooting the Blue & Gold 17-9.

McCarthy currently ranks second in the Atlantic 10 with a .848 save percentage and is also tied for second with 39 saves.

The Explorers, which won two straight to finish out the non-conference season, open Atlantic 10 play on Friday when they host Fordham at 7:30 PM.