Eastern Illinois jumper Machi Nelson has been named the Ohio Valley Conference Male Freshman of the Week following his performances at the season opening EIU Big Blue Invite.
 
Nelson placed first in both the triple jump and long jump at the meet, part of a 12 first place finishes the Panthers put together on the weekend.  He was one of three EIU athletes to win multiple events.
 
His winning mark in the long jump was 24'7" while he cleared 47'4.25" to win the triple jump.  Nelson currently holds the top mark in the OVC in the long jump and third best OVC mark in the triple jump.
 
EIU returns to action this weekend competing Friday and Saturday at the Indiana State Pacesetter Invitational.