Defensive Player of the Week: Brooke Dunnigan

SFA soccer captain Brooke Dunnigan was named Southland Conference Defensive Player of the Week for October 25, 2016. Dunnigan has won this title before in previous seasons, though this was her first time in this season. 

A native of Round Rock, Texas, Dunnigan has played soccer all her life. In high school, she received state wide recognition and was offered a scholarship from SFA. Dunnigan also experienced the opportunity to play with her sister Megan Dunnigan for two seasons, something many players cannot boast. The sisters used their lifelong bond to dominate their opponents, a skill Brooke has carried on since her sister moved to the professional level.  

Dunnigan has led the Ladyjacks soccer team in a phenomenal 2016 season. The team has played with a strong defense each week, and a large part of that credit is due to Dunnigan. Her strong leadership has affected the entire team as well. Her constant communication with her team both on and off the field has been evident in their plays. Not only has the defense become a powerhouse in the Southland Conference, but the offense has also kept up pace with their incredible defense.

Dunnigan is in her last season, but she leaves behind an impressive legacy. She was named the 2015 SLC Student Athlete of the Year, led the Ladyjacks win their fourth and fifth straight Southland Conference regular season championship, and received the Pam Thorsten Award as SFA's most valuable player in 2015, just to name a few accomplishments. Yet her accomplishments only highlight her plays. She plays well each week, regardless of praise or recognition.

As the season begins to draw to a close, Dunnigan prepares for what lies ahead. While there is no definite plans for Dunnigan, there is hope that she does not hang up her cleats just yet. Leaving behind years of blood, sweat and tears won't be easy for Dunnigan. And hopefully, she doesn't leave the soccer world just yet.

Dunnigan has the potential to be a career name in soccer. Her dedication is unparalleled to her opponents and she should be a name that is not forgotten when she leaves Nacogdoches.