2012 D3football.com All-East Region Team (PDF) | 2012 Beyond Sports Network Division III Football All-America Team (PDF)
BRIDGEWATER, Mass. – Bridgewater State University senior defensive tackle Paul Melicharek has been named to the 2012 D3football.com All-East Region Second Team, and has been chosen as an Honorable Mention on the 2012 Beyond Sports Network Division III Football All-America Team.
A three-time New England Football Conference (NEFC) All-Bogan Division First Team selection, Melicharek racked up 47 tackles (38 solo), 18 tackles for loss, 6 ½ sacks and a forced fumble in 2012 to lead the Bears to a 9-2 season and their first appearance in the NCAA Division III Tournament in 12 years. The Glen Rock, New Jersey native ranks 30th in all of Division III in tackles for loss.
A major cog in an outstanding BSU defense, Melicharek helped the Bear finish the season ranked tenth in all of Division III in total defense (266.91 ypg), 27th in rush defense (101.82 ypg), 31st in pass defense (165.09 ypg), 34th in scoring defense (17.73 ppg) and 39th in defensive pass efficiency (108.69 rating).
Melicharek started and played in all 41 games since arriving at Bridgewater State as a freshman in 2009. He amassed 170 tackles (133 solo) with 45 for loss and 10 ½ sacks in four seasons with the Bears to go along with five forced fumbles.