Courtesy Westfield State Sports Information

Westfield State University senior defensive back Ryan O'Connell has been named to the 2011 New England Football Writers Division II/III All-New England team.

O'Connell is the only defensive back from the 16-team New England Football Conference selected to the prestigious New England Division ii/III All-Star squad.

O'Connell was a NEFC Bogan Division first-team selection during his junior and senior seasons. This year he set a school record by returning a fumble 89 yards for a touchdown; he ranked fourth on the team with 53 tackles (35 solo) and intercepted three passes.

During his collegiate career as a three-year starter he intercepted 11 passes and returned two of the picks for touchdowns. He also returned a blocked punt for a touchdown during his sophomore season.