FARMINGTON, Utah – Idaho State opposite hitter Meline Shulikov has been named the Big Sky Conference Co-Defensive Player of the Week, the league announced Monday. The award is the first of her career and follows a dominant two-way performance in Idaho State's 3–1 victory over Weber State on October 17.
Shulikov filled the stat sheet in the win, recording her first double-double of the season and the third of her career with 12 kills and 11 digs while hitting .242 and adding six total blocks. She also contributed five assists and one service ace, finishing with a team-high 16.0 points.
Her performance anchored Idaho State's most balanced offensive and defensive effort of the year, as the Bengals out-blocked Weber State and hit efficiently across all rotations.
"Meline was outstanding for us," said Head Coach Sean Carter. "She was all over the court, making plays both at the net and in the back row. She's worked incredibly hard to become one of the most complete players in this league, and Friday night showed exactly how important she is to our success."
A preseason All-Big Sky selection, Shulikov has been a steady force at the net for Idaho State all season. She ranks among the teams' leaders in total blocks, digs, kills, and points, and continues to expand her impact as a six-rotation player capable of contributing on both ends.
Shulikov's recognition marks Idaho State's first Big Sky weekly award of the 2025 season, highlighting the Bengals' upward momentum in conference play.
Idaho State (3–3 Big Sky) will continue league action this week on the road against Montana and Montana State.
