LOWELL, Mass. – Sophomore Olivia DeCitise (Troy, N.Y.) and freshman Avery Spinello-Branch (Lorton, Va.) were both recognized for their efforts following a 3-0 week for the UMass Lowell softball team.

DeCitise was named America East Pitcher of the Week and River Hawk of the Week, while Spinello-Branch was tabbed America East Rookie of the Week after helping their team sweep conference foe Maine.

DeCitise was the winning pitcher for two of the three victories versus Maine. In the 3-1 win on Friday, DeCitise pitched the full seven and earned a career high of 13 strikeouts. On Saturday, in the 6-1 win, DeCitise came out of the bullpen to throw 3.2 innings and record six strikeouts en route to the decision. Throughout these two victories, DeCitise registered a 0.66 ERA, allowing only six hits and one walk.

DeCitise holds the lowest ERA on the team at 3.75 throughout 69.2 innings. She now has four wins on the season with 74 strikeouts.

Spinello-Branch posted a 1.400 OPS with two doubles & three RBI in a 3-0 weekend against the Black Bears. In the final victory, she had a day, going 4-for-4 at the plate.

Spinello-Branch has started every game at shortstop and bats second for the River Hawks. On the season, she has a .311 batting average with 23 hits. Spinello-Branch has nine stolen bases so far, as well.

The "River Hawk of the Week" is chosen in voting by the UMass Lowell Athletic Communications staff. It honors the top athlete, male or female, based on performance during the previous week of competition.