Kelchner Named Coach Of The Year, 13 Named To USA South's All-Conference Team

FAYETTEVILLE, NC - Christopher Newport Head Football Coach Matt Kelchner took home this year's Coach of the Year honor and 13 of his players were named to the USA South's All-Conference Team, the USA South announced Thursday.

Kelchner's team was picked to finish second in the USA South's preseason poll. He led his troops to an 8-2 overall record and a 6-1 mark in the USA South. The Captains tied with Averett for the USA South's regular season title and earned the conference's automatic bid into the NCAA Tournament with its head-to-head 41-31 win over the Cougars. It's the third time in his six seasons at the helm Kelchner has won the conference's Coach of the Year award.

Nine players were named First Team All-USA South.

Roland Hilliard, the program's all-time leading rusher, was named 1st team running back. Joining him on the first team on offense are wide receiver George Jones, and offensive linemen Matt Boykins and Larry Broach.

On defense, defensive linemen Nathan Williams and DeShaun Parker join teammates Maynard Henry (linebacker) and defensive backs Rob Rodriguez and Justin Long on the first team.

Earning second team honors was offensive lineman Cory Webster and defensive lineman Zakee Williams. Rodriguez was named Second Team Return Specialist.

Tight end Brian Long and linebacker Chris Cappa were both named Honorable Mention All-USA South.

The Captains return to action this Saturday as they host 20th-ranked Washington & Jefferson in the first round of the NCAA Playoffs beginning at 12 pm.

USA South All-Conference