BRIDGEWATER, Mass. -- Bridgewater State University freshman running back Blaise Branch has been voted as the New England Football Conference (NEFC) Bogan Division Offensive Rookie of the Year by the league's coaches.

Branch has rushed for 463 yards and a touchdown on 91 carries in eight games for the Bears this season.  The Brockton, Massachusetts native is averaging five yards per carry and eclipsed the 100-yard rushing mark twice this season.

In Bridgewater's 34-16 victory over Coast Guard on October 8th, Branch grounded out 111 yards on 21 attempts.  The following week, he broke loose for 201 yards and his first career touchdown in the Bears' 34-23 win at Worcester State.

The Bridgewater State football team wrapped up regular season play with an overall record of 7-2 and finished tied for second in the NEFC Bogan Division standings with a 5-2 divisional mark.  The Bears, who have won each of their last five games, are awaiting word on a potential ECAC Bowl selection.