HENNIKER, N.H. - Sophomore linebacker Ethan Cenesca (Manchester, N.H.) of the NEC football team was named to the Conference of New England (CNE) All-Conference First Team as the conference office announced their 2025 football postseason awards on Wednesday. 

Cenesca was a tackling machine for the Pilgrims this season, ranking third in the conference in both total tackles (78) and solo tackles (44). He was tied for the conference lead in tackles-for-loss (10) and solo tackles-for-loss (8.0). Against conference opponents, he ranked second in total tackles (67) and first in solo tackles (40). Cenesca had double-digit tackles five times, including the final four games of the season.  

The sophomore defensive captain started all 10 games for the 'Grims and did a little bit of everything on the field. He had one interception, one sack, one forced fumble, and one pass break up this season. He recorded a season-high 13 stops against conference champions Endicott on November 8th and a personal-best 3.0 tackles-for-loss against Maine Maritime on October 25th. One of those tackles-for-loss against the Mariners forced a key fourth quarter punt which led to the Pilgrims' game-winning drive. 

After a pre-varsity season in 2024, Cenesca lands on the CNE First Team All-Conference in the 'Grims first official season back on the gridiron.  

Freshman quarterback Vincent Boccalini (Sandwich, Mass.) was named to the CNE Community Service Team. 

For continuing coverage of New England College Athletics, visit athletics.nec.edu and follow the Pilgrims on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.