RALEIGH, N.C. – Shaw University freshman defensive standout Keyshawn Richardson has been named the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Football Rookie of the Week, the conference announced Tuesday.

Richardson has made an immediate impact in his first collegiate season, leading the Bears with a game-high nine total tackles (five solo, four assisted) in Shaw's road matchup at Ferrum. The Wilson, N.C. native anchored the Bears' defense in his first career start, helping hold the Panthers to just 181 total yards of offense for the game.

Richardson becomes the first Bear to earn CIAA weekly honors this season, adding to a strong start for Shaw's defensive unit.

The Bears return to action this Saturday, September 20, when they open CIAA play at Lincoln (Pa.). Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. in Lincoln, Pa.