IRVINE, Calif. - The first-place Concordia University Irvine men's water polo team has been locking down on defense and on Wednesday one of their main defenders was recognized by the conference for his stellar play within the team.

Nicolas Fuchs was named WWPA Defensive Player of the Week after helping CUI sweep the season series with their rivals from Biola.

Fuchs collected a season-high three field blocks against Biola while also contributing a goal, an assist and one steal. 

He is one of four Golden Eagles with at least 20 steals this season and part of the glue that has helped shut down conference opponents.

In Concordia's four WWPA wins, the defense has limited opposing teams to just 10.5 goals per game while averaging 17 goals per contest.

Next up for Fuchs and the Golden Eagles will be a pair of home games this coming weekend. Concordia hosts UC Merced on Friday evening at 7 p.m. PT and a win would secure the No. 1 seed in the upcoming WWPA Conference Tournament.

The defending WWPA conference champs then host Fresno Pacific on Saturday at 1 p.m. on Senior Day.

CLICK HERE for the full CUI men's water polo schedule