Kevin Jones (South Hill, VA) of Saint Augustine’s College won the CIAA Defensive Football Player of the Year announced Tuesday, November 7, 2006. He is the second straight Falcons’ middle linebacker under Head Coach Michael Costa to win the award.
“I am proud of my teammates and coaches for pushing me, and my family meant a lot to me. They supported me all year long,” an elated Jones said.
Jones was also added to the All-CIAA first team Tuesday after the squad was announced Monday, November 6, 2006. He captured both honors after a banner season in which the 6-3, 225-pound senior led the CIAA and the nation in total tackles (120). He is second in the CIAA and the nation with a 12.0 tackles per game average. His 58 solo tackles are the most in the CIAA and tied for third best in the nation. Jones also ranks fourth in the CIAA with 16.5 tackles for loss.
Head Coach Michael Costa says Jones was rewarded for the sacrifices he made in the offseason.
“Anytime you are recognized in the conference and nationally and lead the nation in tackles then you deserve such an award,” Costa said. “The stats do not lie. He has worked hard for it. This is great for Saint Augustine’s College.”
Jones is a three-time CIAA defensive lineman of the week selection and was also named D2football.com national defensive player of the week. He was undoubtedly the leader on the Falcons’ defense, which is ranked No.1 in the CIAA and second in the country. The Falcons posted a 4-3 CIAA record (4-6 overall) which tied Johnson C. Smith for second place in the Western Division.
“There is no doubt Kevin Jones has had a stellar season, dominating defensive categories at the conference and national levels,” CIAA Commissioner Leon G. Kerry said. “Jones exhibits fundamentally sound skills as a linebacker and his unparallel accomplishments during this season have earned him this award.”
The All-CIAA Team, Rookie Team and Players of the Year will be honored at the CIAA Football Championship Banquet on Thursday, November 9, 2006, in Durham, NC.