HBCU Standouts Shine on the Track: Coppin State's Carl Drakes and Morgan State's Jeryco Sheppard Earn Top MEAC Weekly Honors

NORFOLK, Va., Feb. 18, 2026 — The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), the premier NCAA Division I athletic conference for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), is proud to announce its weekly men's track and field awards, showcasing the exceptional talent and dedication of student-athletes from across the HBCU community.

Men's Track Athlete of the Week: Carl Drakes, Coppin State

Hailing from the esteemed Coppin State University, Carl Drakes, a senior, has been named the MEAC Men's Track Athlete of the Week. Drakes' remarkable performance on the track has solidified his status as one of the conference's top competitors, further elevating the profile of the Coppin State Eagles' track and field program.

Men's Field Athlete of the Week: Jeryco Sheppard, Morgan State

Joining Drakes in the weekly honors is Jeryco Sheppard, a freshman from the renowned Morgan State University.

As the premier online community for HBCU alumni and supporters, HBCUConnect.com is thrilled to celebrate the achievements of these exceptional young men. The MEAC, renowned for its rich history and unwavering dedication to fostering the growth and development of student-athletes, continues to be a shining example of the transformative power of HBCU athletics.

These accolades serve as a testament to the hard work, determination, and the unparalleled spirit that embodies the HBCU experience. By showcasing the talent and success of Coppin State's Carl Drakes and Morgan State's Jeryco Sheppard, we aim to inspire the next generation of HBCU student-athletes to strive for excellence both on and off the field.

"The success of our student-athletes is a direct reflection of the dedication and passion that our HBCU communities pour into their respective programs. We are proud to celebrate the achievements of Carl and Jeryco, and we look forward to seeing their continued growth and impact on the sport of track and field."

As the MEAC continues to showcase the exceptional talents of its student-athletes, the HBCU community can take immense pride in the remarkable accomplishments of these young men. Their stories serve as a testament to the unwavering spirit and unparalleled potential that emanates from Historically Black Colleges and Universities across the nation.

Originally reported by MEAC Sports.