Two NIU athletes recently were named MAC players of the week.

After going 4-0 and picking up two major decisions along the way, NIU wrestler Pat Castillo was named MAC wrestler of the week Feb. 12.

The two major decisions gave Castillo a total of 15 on the season, leading the nation.

“It’s the part of the season where I want to start peaking and wrestling my best,” Castillo said. “I got a few things to work on, but I’m feeling good about how I’ve been wrestling.”

Castillo’s biggest victory during the week came against Eastern Michigan’s Sean Clair, who is ranked No. 15 in the nation.

“It’s been a long time coming for him; he’s been wrestling this way all year,” said NIU head coach Dave Grant.

This is the second time this season an NIU wrestler has earned the award. Duke Burk received the honor in December.

Castillo earned MAC wrestler of the week once last season.

NIU guard Jake Anderson was named MAC West player of the week for Feb. 18.

Anderson scored a team-season high 24 points while collecting 10 rebounds and seven assists in NIU’s victory over Akron on Feb. 12.

The Huskie victory ended Akron’s 22-game home winning streak, which was the fifth longest in the nation.

The award marks the second time an NIU player has garnered MAC West player of the week this season.

Forward Shaun Logan gained the honor Dec. 31.

“I think Anderson has a chance to be a premier player in this league,” said NIU head coach Ricardo Patton. “For him to come in as a freshman after sitting out last year and play like this, I don’t think he can do anything but get better.”