Mozingo, Smith sweep WCC Player of the Week awards for BYU

SAN MATEO, Calif. — BYU women’s soccer sophomore forward Brecken Mozingo collected West Coast Conference Offensive Player of the Week and senior goalkeeper Cassidy Smith claimed WCC Defensive Player of the Week, the league announced on Monday.

Mozingo guided No. 24 BYU to a 2-1 victory over No. 25 USC on Thursday, Aug. 26, factoring in on both BYU goals. In the 13th minute of the match, Mozingo sent a left-footed blast to the top right corner of the net to make it 1-0. In the 40th minute, Mozingo floated a perfect pass from a free kick in the corner, enabling Bella Folino to connect on a header, taking the lead to 2-0 before the half. Overall, Mozingo had one goal, one assist and three points this week.

Smith's shot-stopping performance led the defensive attack for the Cougars. On one of the back-to-back shots by USC in the 61st minute, Smith almost sailed out the goal area with both hands outstretched to save the ball from a long attempt by USC forward Jada Talley and kept the score 2-0. Overall, Smith had two key saves, factored in on multiple other defensive stands and would have secured a shutout if not for one penalty kick by USC.

These awards mark the first WCC weekly honors collected by BYU this season, and first-ever individual career honors for both Mozingo and Smith.

For the full WCC announcement, visit WCCSports.com.