Western Washington University midfielder Ashton Griffen has been named the Red Lion/Great Northwest Athletic Conference Women's Soccer Defensive Player of the Week for Sept. 23-29.

Griffen, a junior, had a pair of assists and also contributed to two more home shutouts.

The Vikings have outscored their opponents, 17-0, in five home games this fall and have posted 11 consecutive home shutouts dating back to a 1-0 win over Central Washington on Sept. 17, 2011.

"Ashton's work ethic and fitness level is fantastic," said WWU head coach Travis Connell. "This past weekend she covered so much ground, tirelessly closing down the ball, dominating in the air, and winning knockdowns. Her commitment to the team was inspiring."

WWU blanked Northwest Nazarene, 4-0, and nationally No. 23 ranked and previously unbeaten Montana State Billings, 3-0. The Vikings are 8-2-0 overall, having outscored the opposition, 27-4, and are tied for the conference lead at 5-1-0.