Linebacker Tony Palma Named MIAC Defensive Player of the Week

Gustavus junior linebacker Tony Palma (Lino Lakes, Minn./Centennial) has been named MIAC Defensive Player of the Week for his play against Bethel University last Saturday. Palma played a key role in the Gusties’ defensive effort in a 17-10 win over the Royals in Arden Hills, Minn. as he tallied 12 tackles with six solo stops…

Junior Linebacker Tony Palma
Junior Linebacker Tony Palma

Gustavus junior linebacker Tony Palma (Lino Lakes, Minn./Centennial) has been named MIAC Defensive Player of the Week for his play against Bethel University last Saturday. Palma played a key role in the Gusties’ defensive effort in a 17-10 win over the Royals in Arden Hills, Minn. as he tallied 12 tackles with six solo stops and an interception. His interception sealed the victory as he picked off a pass at the Gustavus seven-yard line with 00:48 remaining as Bethel threatened to tie the game.

The Gusties moved into a four-way tie for first place in the conference standings at 4-2 after winning its first game in Arden Hills since 1997. Gustavus, which is 6-2 overall, will face St. Olaf College, which is 4-4 overall and 2-4 in the MIAC, in Northfield on Saturday at 1 p.m.

This marks the fourth time this season a member of the Gustavus football team has been recognized. The others were running back Ray Wilson (Oct. 20), quarterback Jordan Becker (Oct. 27), and linebacker Paul Stommes (Sept. 15).