By Kayla Walker
MTN Sports Reporter
March 1, 2021
Track and Field freshman Erhi Omamuyovwi is making an impact in his first few months at MTSU. He finished second in the triple and high jump on his second debut at the Conference USA Indoor Track & Field Championships on February 21, winning Men's Freshman of the Meet honors.
“I was overwhelmed with joy; I didn’t know that, that was something that was an award”, said Omamuyovwi. “I just heard my name and I had to go and get the award”.
Middle Tennessee gained jumper Omamuyovwi last fall from Nigeria, Delta.
His interest in jumping sparked when he was in elementary school when jumping with friends for fun turned into his passion.
Soon he later discovered jumping could win him so much more than just excitement. “I could use this sport to win money, prizes, and awards. So, I took it seriously” said Omamuyovwi.
His move from Nigeria to Middle Tennessee has been a change for him as he’s had to adjust to the weather conditions, strength training and other personal issues such as emotions. Despite many challenges, his drive to keep working doesn’t go unnoticed.
“He’s willing to work and make a few changes”, said men's track and field coach Dean Hayes. “The high jump was significant and so was the turbo jump. He will probably get in the NCAA at this point."