Nathaniel Ezekiel: A Stellar Season Culminates in National Recognition
In an impressive culmination of a remarkable collegiate season, Nathaniel Ezekiel from Nigeria has been honored as the 2025 NCAA Division I Men’s Outdoor Track & Field National Track Athlete of the Year. This prestigious accolade, awarded by the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association, was determined through a vote by NCAA member coaches. Ezekiel stands out as only the second athlete in the history of Baylor University to receive this honor, joining the ranks of Olympic gold medalist Jeremy Wariner, who last claimed the title in 2004.
A Historic Performance
Ezekiel’s exceptional performance during the NCAA Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Oregon, earlier this month solidified his status. He clinched the national title in the men’s 400m hurdles with an impressive personal best of 47.49 seconds. This remarkable achievement not only secured him the gold medal but also positioned him third on the all-time collegiate list for the event, showcasing his prowess on the track.
Record-Breaking Season
The 2025 season has been nothing short of historic for Ezekiel. He made headlines by becoming the only athlete in collegiate history to record multiple top-ten all-time marks in the 400m hurdles within a single season. While “multiple” typically refers to two performances, Ezekiel surpassed expectations by achieving this feat four times, highlighting his extraordinary talent and consistency.
Earlier in the season, Ezekiel broke the African indoor 400m record with a remarkable time of 44.74 seconds at the Southeastern Conference Indoor Championships in Texas, earning him a spot as the eighth fastest in the global all-time rankings for the event. His triumph at the NCAA finals was the culmination of a series of dominant performances, which included successfully defending his Big 12 Conference title with a championship record of 47.89 seconds.
Recognition Among the Elite
Ezekiel’s consistent excellence throughout the season has not only earned him this prestigious title but also a nomination as a finalist for The Bowerman. This award represents the pinnacle of individual achievement in U.S. collegiate track and field, honoring the best male and female athletes based on their performances during both indoor and outdoor seasons. The final winner will be announced in December, as a panel of coaches, media representatives, statisticians, and fans cast their votes.
Celebrating the Best in Track and Field
In addition to Ezekiel’s achievements, several other outstanding athletes and coaches were recognized in the NCAA’s end-of-season awards. Jamaica’s Ralford Mullings was named the National Men’s Field Athlete of the Year following a record-breaking discus throw, while Savannah Sutherland from Michigan earned the title of Women’s Track Athlete of the Year after setting a new collegiate record in the 400m hurdles.
The coaching accolades were awarded to Quincy Watts of Southern California and Caryl Smith Gilbert of Georgia for their significant contributions in steering their teams to national titles, underscoring the collective excellence present in collegiate track and field.
Conclusion
Nathaniel Ezekiel’s achievements in the 2025 season epitomize the dedication and hard work that defines collegiate athletics. His remarkable performances have not only propelled him to national recognition but have also etched his name in the annals of track and field history. As he prepares for future competitions, the athletic community eagerly anticipates what more this exceptional athlete will achieve.
