NEW ORLEANS — For the second time in his career, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's track and field team's Yakob Ekoue (Sr. - Hopkins, Minn.) has been named the Most Outstanding Field Performer of the Championships for the NCAA Division III Outdoor Championships. The U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association announced the award Wednesday.

Ekoue was also named the recipient of the award in 2023. The honor is given based on a formula that adds team points scored, meet records, seasonal bests and facility records at the NCAA Championships.

Ekoue totaled 23 points in that formula. He was the national champion in discus, setting a new facility record with his winning throw of 58.17 meters. He also placed third in both shot put and hammer throw to earn All-America honors in each event.

The senior is one of only two athletes to ever win the award twice at the outdoor national championships, joining Blugold alumnus Marcus Weaver in that category. The award was first given out in 2015.

Ekoue concluded his Blugold career as a four-time national champion and 13-time All-American. His total of 13 All-America honors ranks in the top 10 in Division III history.