NORTH ATTLEBORO, Mass. (11/10/25) - Four Franklin Pierce University student-athletes were recognized by the Northeast-10 Conference on Monday for their standout performances. 

Senior Alex Benitez (Belle Meade, N.J.) of football was named Special Teams Player of the Week, while men's soccer standouts Julen Martin (Bilbao, Spain) and Stepan Fiker (Prague, Czech Republic) earned Defensive Player of the Week and Rookie of the Week honors, respectively. Men's ice hockey forward Mario Paganini (Harrison, N.Y.) rounded out the group, claiming Player of the Week recognition. 

Benitez made a strong impact on special teams during Saturday's 38–7 victory over Southern Connecticut State, recording three punt returns for 61 yards, including a season-long 28-yard return.  

Martin anchored the defensive unit in Wednesday's 3–1 win over Saint Anselm, limiting the Hawks' offensive opportunities while contributing two assists and two shots on the other end of the pitch. 

Fiker, earning his second consecutive NE10 weekly award, continued his strong play with a goal and three shots in the same 3–1 victory over Saint Anselm. The freshman also helped hold the Hawks to just one goal, showcasing his impact on both sides of the field. 

Paganini powered the Ravens to a 3–0 week, totaling eight points. He opened with his first career hat trick in a non-conference win over Westfield State, followed by two goals and three assists in a weekend sweep of Southern New Hampshire. Two of his five goals were game-winners. 

The men's soccer team will face SNHU on Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the NE10 Championship Semifinal. 

Football travels to Pace this Saturday for its season finale, seeking a program-record sixth win. 

Men's ice hockey returns to action Tuesday night with a non-conference matchup at Salem State.