NEW ORLEANS, La. – Eastern Oregon University’s indoor track and field program continues to be recognized for their outstanding performance, this time securing multiple accolades from the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association.
West Region Men’s Track Athlete of the Year – Hunter Nichols
Hunter Nichols, a native of Heppner, Oregon, has been named the West Region Men’s Track Athlete of the Year. Nichols has demonstrated exceptional consistency by hitting qualifying marks for the NAIA Indoor Championships at every meet. Notably, Nichols set a new school record in the 3000 meters with a blazing time of 8:18.05 OT, surpassing the previous record held by Isaac Updike.
West Region Men’s Field Athlete of the Year – Judson Mansfield
Judson Mansfield, representing Washougal, Washington, has claimed the title of West Region Men’s Field Athlete of the Year. Mansfield recently secured the second position nationally in the heptathlon with an impressive score of 4960 points. His outstanding performance at the EOU Last Chance Indoor Meet includes personal bests in the long jump and pole vault.
West Region Women’s Field Athlete of the Year – Lizzy Grandle
Lizzy Grandle, hailing from Molalla, Oregon, has been honored as the West Region Women’s Field Athlete of the Year. Grandle’s performance in the pentathlon and high jump has earned her recognition among the top-10 athletes nationally. During her sole pentathlon event of the season, Grandle accumulated 3333 points, securing the sixth position on the seasonal Descender Order List.
West Region Men’s Assistant Coach of the Year – Connor Bracken
In addition to the individual accolades, Eastern Oregon’s coaching staff has been duly recognized for their outstanding contributions. Connor Bracken, named the West Region Men’s Assistant Coach of the Year, has showcased exemplary leadership and coaching for the Mounties this season. Under his guidance, eight athletes across various events secured national qualifying marks, with his 60-meter hurdle crew ranking No. 10 nationally.
West Region Men’s and Women’s Coach of the Year – Ben Welch
Head Coach Ben Welch has been named both the West Region Coach of the Year on both the men’s and women’s sides. Welch’s leadership has propelled the Mountaineers to unprecedented success, culminating in a No. 1 ranking in the West Region and No. 10 nationally on the Men’s side. Eastern Oregon Men’s Indoor Track & Field has compiled 14 national qualifiers and had five Top-10 #EventSquad rankings, led by a No. 3 in the 3000 meters. With the women’s team, Welch has also led the Mountaineers to a No. 1 ranking in the West Region and Top-10 national rankings in three events.
