SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Nichols College senior Brett McEvoy (Wrentham, Mass.) and sophomore Tony Martignoli (Santa Rosa, Calif.) were each named to the 2017 Commonwealth Coast Conference (CCC) Football First Team. Freshman Jaylen Encarnacion (Pawtucket, R.I.) was named to the Second Team – Defense.

McEvoy – the program's all-time leading tackler with 385 – earned his fourth all-conference nod and second First Team selection. He led the Bison and finished second in the conference in tackles with 115 (41 solo) and recorded 10-or-more tackles in seven contests, including a season-high 15 against Westfield State on Sept. 1 and again against Endicott on Nov. 4. McEvoy led the CCC in fumble recoveries (four) and also collected seven tackles for loss. He also owns several punting records at NC, including punts (207) and yards (7,237).

"I can't say enough good things about Brett," sand Olmsted. "The three-year captain leaves as our all-time leader in tackles and holds several punting records as well. He will be missed on the field, but not off as he plans to return to Nichols next year and work with our linebackers."

Martignoli was recognized on the First Team – Offense as an All-Purpose specialist. He compiled 1,376 yards of total offense, rushing for 160 yards and six touchdowns while throwing for 1,216 yards and four scores. Martignoli tossed for a career-high 340 yards and a pair of touchdowns at Morrisville State on Sept. 23. Late in the season, Martignoli moved back to his natural position of wide receiver – where he was a First Team pick last season – and caught 13 passes for 267 yards and one touchdown. Martignoli compiled five catches for 102 yards and a touchdown in the home finale against the Gulls.

"I'm glad to see Tony recognized for his efforts this past season," added Olmsted. "He was put into a difficult position entering the season but persevered and was rewarded for his hard work. He is a truly gifted athlete who can do it all."

Encarnacion was fourth on the Bison in tackles with 61 (25 solo). He picked up his first collegiate sack against Anna Maria on Sept. 9 and also brought down the QB once against the Hawks and Western New England on Nov. 11. Encarnacion racked up 10 tackles on three occasions: Coast Guard (Sept. 16), Salve Regina (Oct. 14), and Becker.

"For Jaylen to be honored at a very deep position in the CCC is quite an honor," explained Olmsted. "The 6-2, 255 pound defensive lineman out of Saint Raphael Academy led all freshmen in tackles and also collected three sacks."

The Bison finished the 2017 campaign 2-8 overall (0-5 CCC).