Russell and Couture named Acadia athletes of the week

Samantha Russell of the women’s basketball team and Thomas Couture of the men’s hockey team have been named the Acadia Athletes of the Week for the period ending January 19.

Russell, a fourth-year business administration student from Dartmouth, NS, delivered back-to-back standout performances to lead the Axewomen to two critical wins, propelling them into second place in the AUS standings. On Friday, she scored 30 points on 52% shooting, along with 17 rebounds, five assists, seven steals, and a block in an 87-73 win over Cape Breton. She followed that up on Saturday with 23 points, nine rebounds, four assists, and three steals in a 74-66 victory over STFX.

Couture, a second-year business administration student from Lévis, Quebec, was a standout in net for the Axemen in their weekend opener against the No. 1 ranked UNB REDS. In a hard-fought overtime battle, Couture made 38 saves to keep the Axemen competitive in a 3-2 loss. His stellar play was pivotal in containing the high-powered REDS offense and forcing the game into extra time.

Both teams are home again this weekend as they both host the UPEI Panthers. 

The Acadia athletes of the week are presented by McDonald’s.