RICHMOND, Ky. – Eastern Kentucky University's Dena Tekavec was named Ohio Valley Conference Newcomer and Defensive Player of the Week on Monday
 
It is the first time the senior has won the awards this year.
 
Tekavec controlled the back line for the Colonels posting 46 digs, good for 7.67 digs per set over the weekend.
 
She posted a match-best 28 digs and six assists in the sweep of Eastern Illinois on Saturday. Tekavec also posted a match-high 18 digs against SIU Edwardsville on Friday.
 
Eastern hits the road this weekend for two crucial conference games when the Colonels take on Belmont on Friday and Tennessee State on Saturday. First serve against Belmont is scheduled for 7 p.m.