SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – University of the Incarnate Word senior linebacker Myke Tavarres (Lake Oswego, OR/Lake Ridge HS) had a memorable season for the Cardinals and the story continues to be written after he was named to the STATS FCS All-America First Team on Tuesday.

Tavarres had a record-breaking season for the Cardinals as an outside linebacker.  He set school records with 110 tackles, 22.5 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks while adding five pass breakups, seven quarterback hurries and three forced fumbles.  He played a key role in a defensive unit that was one of the best in the Southland Conference.

"It's extremely deserving and I'm as happy as heck for Myke and the entire UIW family," said UIW head coach Larry Kennan.

Tavarres was previously named the Southland Conference Newcomer of the Year and a first team player.  He is one of three members of the conference on the STATS FCS All-America First Team joining Lamar running back Kade Harrington and Sam Houston State offensive lineman Donald Jackson III.  Tavarres finished the year tied for fourth in the nation in tackles for loss per game and 14^th in sacks per game.

STATS is the first organization to release their FCS All-America teams, but the Associated Press, FCS ADA, Walter Camp and the American Football Coaches Association will all be releasing their own All-America teams in the next few days and weeks.
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