Sept. 15, 2008

LONG BEACH, Calif. - Northern Illinois goalkeeper Joe Zimka was named to the TopDrawerSoccer Men's College Team of the Week for his performance at the NIU/adidas Invitational over the weekend.

"Joe's has won that accolade before, the difference this year is he's really focused and mentally sharp," head coach Steve Simmons said. "He prepared himself well in the summer and we're seeing the benefits of that right now."

Zimka, who was named to the national team twice in 2006, recorded six saves to shutout Xavier in the Huskies' opening match of the NIU/adidas Invitational. Zimka highlighted the day by stunting a penalty kick, one of several outstanding saves.

"His confidence in himself, and his confidence that exudes to the players is positively affecting the way we perform," Simmons said. "I'm sure there are other good goalkeepers in the country, but Joe is playing extremely well."

Simmons also complimented the play of the other 10 members on the field that allowed Zimka to yield just one goal on the weekend, and record a 0.45 goals against average.

"It's a tribute to the boys that Joe is able to get that award," Simmons said.

At the NIU/adidas Invite, the Huskies defeated the Musketeers, 4-0, and tied Eastern Illinois, 1-1, to take second place. Zimka was named to the All-Tournament Team for his outing.

The Huskies return to action at the Tulsa Invitational, where they will face No. 4 SMU and No. 15 Tulsa, Sept. 19 and 21, respectively.