WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — Freshman midfielder Ethan Nethery has been named the Hilltopper of the Week after helping lead the West Liberty University men's soccer team to a historic milestone — the program's first-ever playoff victory.

The Drumquin, County Tyrone, native played a pivotal role in the 3–0 shutout win over Point Park in the conference quarterfinals at Highmark Stadium, opening the scoring in the 22nd minute to set the tone for the Hilltoppers. Nethery's early goal — his third of the season — ignited a confident team performance that carried West Liberty to a commanding victory and a spot in the conference semifinals.

A first-year standout, Nethery has been a consistent force in the midfield all season, starting all 16 matches and logging over 1,300 minutes of play. His composure, vision, and work rate earned him All-Mountain East Conference Honorable Mention recognition earlier this week — one of three Hilltoppers honored by the league.

Nethery and the Hilltoppers will look to continue their postseason run Wednesday night when they travel to Concord University for a 7 p.m. kickoff in the conference semifinals.