Palm Desert golfer Lauren Mata is the winner of this week's Fall Sports Hero award.

See this week's Fall Sports Hero voting results.

The other Fall Sports Hero finalists this week were:

Morgan Pope, La Quinta Volleyball: This multi-sport senior standout was instrumental in leading the Blackhawks to a five-set victory against Cathedral City. Her 13 kills helped the Blackhawks secure the third spot in DVL and a playoff bid.

Dylan Tashjian, Palm Springs Water Polo: Junior secured Palm Springs’ second-place finish in DVL bid with five goals in a 14-7 victory against La Quinta this week. He added three goals Wednesday.

Samantha Dougherty, La Quinta Cross Country: Speedy senior won the final Desert Valley League race, finishing strong at 19:43 at Cathedral City. That help seal La Quinta’s third consecutive team title.

Check back late tonight for the next round of Fall Sports Hero nominees.