University of Hawaii defensive lineman Kennedy Tulimasealii today was named to the 2015 Mountain West Conference first team.

Tulimasealii, a junior from Waianae High, led the Rainbow Warriors with 18.5 backfield tackles, including 3.5 sacks. He also had eight quarterback hurries.

“He came to play,” said Abraham Elimimian, who finished the 2015 season as UH’s defensive coordinator. “I think he’s just a tremendous athlete. He’s got the quickness of a linebacker and the strength of a defensive linemen. I’ve played with a lot of good players, and he’s unique.”

Right guard Dejon Allen, left tackle Ben Clarke, inside linebacker Julian Gener, cornerback Nick Nelson and punter/kicker Rigo Sanchez received honorable mention.

San Diego State made a clean sweep of the Player of the Year awards, with junior running back Donnel Pumphrey honored on offense, junior defensive back Demontae Kazee on defense, and sophomore returner Rashaad Penny on special teams.

San Diego State coach Rocky Long was named Coach of the Year and Boise State quarterback Brett Rypien earned the Freshman of the Year honor.

The Aztecs went 9-3 overall and 8-0 in the MWC’s West Division. UH finished 3-10 and 0-8 and was the only winless team in the MWC.