SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (October 5, 2026) – Western New England University women's soccer senior goalkeeper Ainsley Napolitano (Andover, Mass.) has been named the Conference of New England (CNE) Women's Soccer Defensive Player of the Week following a standout week in which she helped the Golden Bears earn a pair of shutout victories over Westfield State University and the University of New England.

Napolitano's award-winning week started with her playing all 90 minutes in goal during Western New England's 1-0 victory over Westfield State University on Wednesday at Suprenant Field. The senior goalkeeper made one save while directing the Golden Bears' defensive unit from the goal, helping WNE limit the Owls to just one shot on goal and preserve the shutout.

Napolitano followed that performance by playing another complete 90 minutes in goal during Western New England's 1-0 CNE shutout victory over the University of New England on Saturday afternoon at Barbara J. Hazard Field. The senior goalkeeper came through with two saves, including a stop on an attempt in the 62nd minute that helped preserve the Golden Bears' one-goal advantage. Napolitano continued to quarterback the defense throughout the remainder of the match as WNE held UNE scoreless to secure its fourth consecutive victory.

Across the two victories, Napolitano played all 180 minutes in goal, recorded three saves and helped Western New England's defense post two consecutive shutouts. In addition to her statistical contributions, Napolitano provided a commanding presence behind the Golden Bears' back line, communicating and organizing the defense throughout both matches while helping WNE limit its opponents to a combined three shots on goal.

The recognition marks Napolitano's first CNE Women's Soccer Defensive Player of the Week honor this season.

Napolitano and the Golden Bears remain on the road on Wednesday, October 7, traveling to Beverly, Massachusetts, for a 4 p.m. matchup with Endicott College.