Virginia Field Hockey Goalkeeper Nilou Lempers Named ACC Defensive Player of the Week
Virginia field hockey junior goalkeeper Nilou Lempers has been recognized for her outstanding performance, earning the title of ACC Defensive Player of the Week, as announced by the Atlantic Coast Conference on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. This marks the second time this season Lempers has received this honor, solidifying her position as a key player for the Cavaliers.
Lempers is enjoying a stellar season, currently boasting seven shutouts, with a remarkable five coming against nationally ranked opponents. Most recently, she anchored the Virginia defense in a 2-0 road victory against Louisville on Friday, October 24, recording six crucial saves – her second-highest single-game save total this year. The Amsterdam, Netherlands native has dramatically improved upon last season’s 2-2 record, currently holding a 10-1 win-loss record.
Statistically, Lempers leads the NCAA in both save percentage (.878) and goals against average (.49) as of late October. The Virginia team as a whole also ranks prominently in national statistics, holding the No. 1 position in save percentage (.887) and goals against average (.45), and ranking No. 2 in shutouts per game (.62).
The No. 4 ranked Virginia field hockey team will return to action tonight, Tuesday, October 28, hosting No. 11 Maryland at 6 p.m. They will then welcome No. 6 Wake Forest on Friday, October 31, at 5 p.m. for their final regular season game, where the team will also honor its graduating seniors. Admission to all regular season contests at Turf Field remains free for all attendees.
