(Arlington, Texas – Sept. 19, 2023) Utah Tech men's soccer's Julian Herrera was named TicketSmarter Western Athletic Conference (WAC) Men's Soccer Defensive Player of the Week, the conference office announced on Tuesday. Herrera's recognition marks the second time in four weeks that Utah Tech has had a player recognized by the conference office.
 
The Las Vegas, Nev., native started both of UT's games this past weekend, playing 167 of 180 possible minutes. Against Gonzaga on Sunday, Herrera tallied his first goal of the season and the third of his career, tying the game with a headed effort off a set piece in the 27^th minute. Defensively, he helped lead a Trailblazer backline that limited Gonzaga to just three shots on target.
 
Currently sitting at third on the team in minutes played this season, Herrera has played a key role on a Utah Tech defense that has allowed just 0.83 goals per game, which is good for the lowest mark in the conference. Additionally, the Trailblazer defense is holding opponents to just 10.5 shots per game.
 
Herrera is the third Trailblazer to earn recognition from the WAC this season, joining AJ Ciampini (Aug. 29 – Defender of the Week) and Stockton Short (Aug. 29 – Goalkeeper of the Week).
 
Utah Tech returns to action on Thursday, facing San Diego State on the road.