Head Track and Field coach Rick McGuire and freshman thrower Christian Cantwell were recognized as Men's Coach and Freshman of the Year, the Big 12 Conference announced yesterday. McGuire led both the men's and the women's teams to their highest-ever finishes in his 17 years at Missouri.

Colorado's Jorge Torres was selected Co-Men's Freshman of the Year along with Cantwell. The honor could have been split into two categories. Torres did his damage on the track, running to the title in the 5,000 meters (14:05.56) while Cantwell drew attention in the field events. Cantwell finished second to Iowa State All-American Jamie Beyer in the shot put (60 feet, 5.25 inches) and fifth in the weight throw (61'6.75").

McGuire garnered two more votes than Nebraska's Gary Pepin to win Men's Coach of the Year, but Pepin took the same honor on the women's side. Coach McGuire was recognized as Men's Coach of the Year after leading Mizzou's men to a third place finish. Under his tenure, 52 Missouri athletes have won conference titles. McGuire has had 13 consecutive teams named as Academic-All America.

Chris Chandler from Nebraska and Liz Diaz of Texas were selected as Performers of the Year while Amy Mortimer of Kansas State was the Women's Freshman of the Year.