BRIDGEWATER, Mass. -- Bridgewater State University junior Ken Francis has been named the New England Wrestling Association (NEWA) Wrestler of the Week.

A native of New Bedford, Massachusetts, Francis captured the 125-pound title at the prestigious Messiah Petrofes Invitational this past weekend as he went 4-0 at the tournament.

In 16 bouts this season, Francis has compiled a record of 14-2 with 30 takedowns, 10 reversals, 11 escapes, and 14 near falls. He leads the NEWA in reversals and is tied for first in wins. Francis also ranks fifth in takedowns and seventh in win percentage (.875).

As a freshman in 2008-2009, Francis placed second at the New England Wrestling Association Championships in the 133-pound weight class.  He was also selected as the NEWA Rookie of the Year as well as a Pilgrim Wrestling League (PWL) First Team All-Star.

The Bridgewater State wrestling team will travel to Johnson and Wales University on Thursday night for a seven o’clock PWL match with the Wildcats.