SUNY Potsdam freshman Ashley Thayer was named the State University of New York Athletic Conference Softball Pitcher of the Week for the week of March 7-13, the league announced Monday.

Thayer, a pitcher and outfielder, tossed the first no-hitter in school history last Thursday in the Bears’ 4-0 victory over Regis at the week-long Gene Cusic Classic in Ft. Myers, Fla. The Winthrop, N.Y., native struck out nine while walking just three in the complete-game classic while also going 2-for-4 with a run scored at the plate.

For the week, Thayer posted a 3-1 record in four starts, registering a solid 3.16 earned run average while pitching two other complete games. In her collegiate debut against Bridgewater State on March 7, Thayer allowed just two hits, two runs (none earned) and three walks while striking out 14 in a 7-2 Potsdam triumph.

“Ashley has come a long way from high school,” Potsdam coach Shannon Dillabough said. “She’s worked hard on her command, and she has late movement on her pitches. She’s a natural talent who works hard and throws strikes. She wasn’t afraid and didn’t give into anyone, even with runners in scoring position. She took the competition by the horns last week.”

Thayer was also an offensive stalwart for the Bears, going 8-for-16 (.500) with four runs scored a stolen base in five games.

The Bears, who finished the spring break trip 5-5, don’t play again until April 1, when they host conference rival Plattsburgh.

Each week, SUNYAC sports information directors nominate student-athletes from their respective institutions for each sport and each player of the week is selected by the league's administration.

To see a complete list of this week's winners, visit: http://www.sunyac.com/news/2011/3/14/BB_0314115420.aspx.