Abby Barker Named Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week
10/28/2014 12:00:00 AM | Field Hockey
Barker assisted on the goal that put MSU up 2-0 in a 2-1 upset over No.12 Michigan. The assist was her 12th of the season, cracking her into the top 10 all-time at MSU for assists in a season.
Against Central Michigan on Oct. 26, she recorded her third multi-goal game of the season, scoring both of Michigan State's goals in a 2-0 victory. Her five points this weekend brings her season total to 40, which ranks second in the Big Ten and also enters her into the top 10 all-time at MSU for points in a single season.
"Abby was instrumental in both of our wins this weekend," said head coach Helen Knull. "She played aggressive on Friday, setting up Allie Ahern on her goal. On Sunday, it was great to see her poise when it came to finishing vs. an aggressive goalkeeper."
Barker ranks towards the top of every offensive category in the Big Ten, most notably second in points (40), fourth in goals (14) and fifth in assists (12). She is the only player in the Big Ten to rank in the top five of all three categories.
Her 14 goals on the season puts her one goal shy of Floor Rijpma's 60 career goals and two behind Annebet Beerman's 61 for the second most goals in a career at Michigan State. Her 136 career points are just two behind Rijpma, who holds the third spot in MSU's record book for career points.
Abby Barker and Michigan State conclude the regular season on Saturday, Nov. 1 at home when they take on No. 9 Louisville. Barker and the other five Spartan seniors will be recognized before the game for their hard work and dedication to the program in their time at Michigan State. The Spartans will then head to Ann Arbor the following weekend for the Big Ten Tournament, with their opening round game on Thursday.
