NEWPORT NEWS, Va. - Christopher Newport junior Ben James has been selected the Defensive Lineman of the Year in the Division II/III/NAIA/USCAA Divisions by the Touchdown Club of Richmond. The announcement was made Wednesday morning, as 14 total student-athletes received recognition.

James, from Virginia Beach, led the Captains this season in tackles with 40, including a team-best ten for lost yardage. He also topped the squad in sacks with six. Christopher Newport finished the 2018 season with a 7-2 record, with both losses coming in overtime. Art Link's squad concluded the campaign on a four-game winning streak. 

James was a key member of a Christopher Newport defense that finished the season eighth in the nation in total yardage allowed (234.7 yards per game). James and the Captains also were 15th in the country in rushing defense (71.7 yards per game).

The 14 players will be honored at the Dudley/Lanier Awards Banquet next Wednesday, December 12, at the Hilton Richmond Hotel, 12042 West Broad Street, Richmond. The banquet starts at 7:00pm with a social at 6:00pm. Tickets to the event cost $50.00 and may be purchased by calling Ron Axselle, 804.310.0222, or tdclubofrichmond@verizon.net.

The Touchdown Club of Richmond is a sports-social organization, based in Richmond, that promotes the best interests of the American game of football and sports in general, under the guidance of elected officers, with the predominate purpose being to recognize worthy athletes for their accomplishments and to encourage them to continue their education and athletic careers.

Touchdown Club of Richmond
2018 Players of the Year
Division I
Offensive Back – Bryce Perkins, Virginia
Offensive End – Olamide Zaccheaus, Virginia 
Offensive Lineman – John Yarbrough, Richmond
Defensive Lineman – Ricky Walker, Virginia Tech
Linebacker – Chris Peace, Virginia
Defensive Back – Brice Hall, Virginia
Specialist – D'Angelo Amos, James Madison
 
Division II, III/NAIA/USCAA
Offensive Back – Hayden Bauserman, Shenandoah
Offensive End – Major Morgan, Hampden-Sydney
Offensive Lineman – Greg Castle, Randolph-Macon
Defensive Lineman – Ben James, Christopher Newport
Linebacker – Re'Shaun Myers, Bridgewater
Defensive Back – Sterling Hammond, Virginia Union
Specialist – Cole Westberry, Averett