Michigan State Announces Major Athletic Award Winners
6/29/2022 1:00:00 PM | Cross Country, Football, General, Men's Soccer, Men's Tennis, Track and Field, Women's Gymnastics
EAST LANSING, Mich. - Michigan State Athletics has announced its All-Sports Awards winners for the 2021-22 season. The awards include the George Alderton Male and Female Athletes of the Year, Chester Brewer Leadership Award, Dr. James Feurig Achievement and Service Award, and Big Ten Conference Medals of Honor. A panel of administrators and coaches selected the winners.
AWARD – WINNER
George Alderton Male Athlete of the Year – Kenneth Walker III (football)
George Alderton Female Athlete of the Year – Jenna Magness (women's cross country/track & field)
Chester Brewer Leadership Award – Jack Winkler (men's tennis)
Dr. James Feurig Achievement and Service Award – Jack Winkler (men's tennis)
Big Ten Conference Medal of Honor (Male) – Morgan Beadlescomb (men's cross country/track & field)
Big Ten Conference Medal of Honor (Female) – Lea Mitchell (gymnastics)
Big Ten Outstanding Sportsmanship Award – Farai Mutatu (men's soccer)/ Mary Lewis (women's tennis)
GEORGE ALDERTON MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
(Presented to top male athlete of 2021-22)
Winner: Kenneth Walker III (football)
Kenneth Walker III, who transferred to Michigan State from Wake Forest in 2021, electrified the Spartans in his only year wearing the Green and White, sparking the team to an 11-2 record and a Top-10 finish in the national polls (No. 8 Coaches, No. 9 Associated Press).
A unanimous first-team All-American who became the first Spartan to win Doak Walker Award and the Walter Camp National Player of the Year, Walker ranked second in the FBS in rushing in 2021 with 1,636 yards (136.3 ypg). The Big Ten Running Back of the Year and the AP Big Ten Co-Offensive Player of the Year also ranked eighth in the FBS with 18 rushing touchdowns. His 1,636 rushing yards were the fourth most by a Spartan in a single season in school history, and he was the fastest Spartan to reach 1,000 yards in a single season in terms of carries (153 carries). In addition, his 18 rushing TDs tied for fifth most in an MSU season and his 19 overall TDs (one receiving score) tied for fourth most.
Walker's explosiveness was on display all season long, transforming the Spartans into one of the best offenses in the Big Ten. According to Pro Football Focus, he led the FBS in rushing yards after contact (1,168) and ranked second with 89 missed forced tackles; he also ranked among the FBS leaders in 20-plus yard carries (first with 21), 10-plus yard carries (tied for third with 46), yards from scrimmage (sixth with 143.8 ypg), rushing TDs (eighth with 18), carries (eighth with 263), scoring (11th with 9.5 ppg), total TDs (ninth with 19) and rushing yards per carry (15th with 6.2 avg.).
A Maxwell Award finalist who finished sixth in the Heisman Trophy voting, Walker had eight 100-yard rushing games in 2021, including two 200-yard games (264 vs. Northwestern on Sept. 3; 172 at Miami on Sept. 18; 126 vs. Western Kentucky on Sept. 25; 233 at Rutgers on Oct. 9; 197 vs. Michigan on Oct. 30; 136 at Purdue on Nov. 6; 143 vs. Maryland on Nov. 13; 138 vs. Penn State on Nov. 27).
Following a record-breaking performance in the 37-33 win over No. 6 Michigan on Oct. 30, Walker collected several honors, including National Offensive Player of the Week (Walter Camp Football Foundation, Maxwell Award, The Athletic) and Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week. Walker rushed for five touchdowns, the most by any player ever against the Wolverines, and finished with a total of 197 yards on just 23 carries (8.6 avg.). His scores came on runs of 27 and 8 yards in the second quarter, 1 yard in the third quarter, and 58 and 23 yards in the fourth quarter. He also had 208 all-purpose yards (197 rushing, 11 receiving). The five TDs tied for the second most in school history (record: six by Blake Ezor vs. Northwestern in 1989; five by Javon Ringer vs. Eastern Michigan in 2008).
Walker had previously etched his name into the history books earlier in the month, as his 94-yard touchdown run in the third quarter at Rutgers on Oct. 9 was the longest rush in the 125-year history of Michigan State football, bettering a 90-yard run by Lynn Chandnois vs. Arizona in 1949. It was also the longest offensive play from scrimmage in school history, topping a 93-yard pass from Tony Banks to Nigea Carter vs. Indiana in 1994. Walker finished with 29 carries for 233 yards against the Scarlet Knights.
Walker burst onto the scene with a record-setting debut as a Spartan, rushing for a career-high 264 yards – the seventh-highest total in school history – while scoring a career-high four touchdowns to lead the Spartans past Northwestern on Sept. 3. It marked the most rushing yards by a Spartan in a debut wearing the Green and White. Walker became just the second Spartan to record more than 250 rushing yards and four touchdowns in the same game (Eric Allen, school-record 350 yards and four TDs vs. Purdue on Oct. 30, 1971). On his first carry as a Spartan, Walker sprinted 75 yards to the end zone against the Wildcats.
Selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the second round (No. 41 overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft, Walker is the first football player to be named the George Alderton Male Athlete of the Year since Darqueze Dennard in 2014.
PAST WINNERS - ALDERTON MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR:
2021-Morgan Beadlescomb (cross country/track & field); 2020-Cassius Winston (basketball); 2019-Cassius Winston (basketball); 2018-Miles Bridges (basketball) and Tim Ehrhardt (track & field); 2017-Tim Ehrhardt (track & field); 2016-Denzel Valentine (basketball); 2015-Jake Hildebrand (hockey); 2014-Darqueze Dennard (football); 2013-Le'Veon Bell (football); 2012-Draymond Green (basketball); 2011-Greg Jones (football); 2010-Greg Jones (football); 2009-Franklin Gomez (wrestling); 2008-Jeff Lerg (hockey); 2007-Jeff Lerg (hockey); 2006-Brad Gebauer (track & field); 2005-Nick Simmons (wrestling); 2004-Jeff Smoker (football); 2003-Charles Rogers (football); 2002-Paul Terek (track & field); 2001-Ryan Miller (hockey); 2000-Mateen Cleaves (basketball); 1999-Mateen Cleaves (basketball) and Mike York (hockey); 1998-Chad Alban (hockey); 1997-Reid Friedrichs (soccer); 1996-David Morgan (wrestling); 1995-Shawn Respert (basketball); 1994-Emilio Collins (wrestling); 1993-Bryan Smolinski (hockey); 1992-Anthony Hamm (cross country/track & field); 1991-Steve Smith (basketball); 1990-Kip Miller (hockey) and Percy Snow (football); 1989-Bobby Reynolds (hockey); 1988-Todd Krumm (football/baseball); 1987-Don McSween (hockey); 1986-Mike Donnelly (hockey), Lorenzo White (football), Scott Skiles (basketball); 1985-Sam Vincent (basketball); 1984-Carl Banks (football); 1983-Ron Scott (hockey); 1982-Ron Scott (hockey).
GEORGE ALDERTON FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
(Presented to top female athlete of 2021-22)
Winner: Jenna Magness (women's cross country/track & field)
Following a breakout 2020-21 season that saw her win the 2021 George Alderton Award, Jenna Magness was somehow able to top that output this season. Through cross country, indoor track and outdoor track seasons, she ended her final campaign in the Green and White by adding on three more Big Ten crowns, three more All-America distinctions and a NCAA bronze medal.
She is the first back-to-back women's winner of the George Alderton Award since golfer Sarah Burnham in 2017 and 2018. This is the fourth-straight year that a Spartan track & field athlete has earned the top MSU honor, joining Annie Fuller (2020) and Aysa Reynolds (2019).
Magness took advantage of a full cross country season, starting out by earning Big Ten Athlete of the Week for her performances at the Griak Invitational and Nuttycombe Invitational. Hitting the postseason, Magness was the Big Ten Championships' bronze medalist for the second-straight season before continuing into the NCAA Great Lakes Regionals, where she was the top MSU finisher in fourth place. At the NCAA Championships, Magness made the most of it by running a personal-best 6K time of 19:42.1 to place 14th, capturing her second NCAA All-American award in cross country.
Indoor season saw Magness set personal bests at three different distances in her first three meets, as she won the mile at the Simmons-Harvey Invitational with a 4:41.31 finish before taking second at the IU Relays with a 3000m time of 9:05.62. She then broke her own 5000m school record with a winning time of 15:36.60 at the Music City Challenge, while the Big Ten Indoor Championships saw Magness earn silver in the 3000m and repeat as the 5000m champion. She ended the winter slate by placing sixth in the 5000m at the NCAA Indoor Championships, picking up another NCAA First Team All-America nod.
A late start to the outdoor season did not slow down the Grand Ledge, Michigan, native, as Magness set a new 1500m PR to open the spring, placing first at the Louisville Invitational with a 4:16.89 time. She then shattered her previous school record for the outdoor 5000m when she placed second at the Virginia Challenge using a 15:26.21 time. She then became just the second Spartan ever to win the 5000m and 10,000m titles at the same Big Ten Outdoor Championships, claiming the 10,000m crown in her first race at the distance and being named the Women's Track Athlete of the Championships. Finishing second in the 10,000m semifinals at the NCAA East Preliminary Round, Magness then capped off her career by posting a PR time of 32:59.96 to take bronze in the 10,000m finals at the NCAA Outdoor Championships, garnering NCAA First Team All-America status again.
Having earned her bachelor's degree in chemical engineering in May, Magness was named to the CoSIDA Academic All-America Third Team.
Magness is the second track & field athlete to win the award twice, following in the footsteps of Jamie Krzyminski in the 2003 and 2004. Kryzminski is also the only other Spartan to win the 5000m and 10,000m titles in the same Big Ten Outdoor Championships.
Magness is also the 15th different track & field athlete to be named the George Alderton Female Athlete of the Year, joining Fuller (2020), Reynolds (2019), Leah O'Connor (2015), Beth Rohl (2013), Emily MacLeod (2011), Nicole Bush (2009), Krzyminski (2004 and 2003), Michelle Carson (2003), Sevatheda Fynes (1997), Susan Francis (1994), Misty Allison (1992), Odessa Smalls (1987), Judi Brown (1983) and Molly Brennan (1982).
PAST WINNERS - ALDERTON FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR:
2021-Jenna Magness (track & field/cross country); 2020-Annie Fuller (track & field) and Valery Plata (golf); 2019-Asya Reynolds (track & field) and Ally Geer-Park (golf); 2018-Sarah Burnham (golf); 2017-Sarah Burnham (golf) and Tori Jankoska (basketball); 2016-Aerial Powers (basketball); 2015-Leah O'Connor (cross country/track & field); 2014-Allyssa Ferrell (golf); 2013-Caroline Powers (golf) and Beth Rohl (track & field); 2012-Laura Heyboer (soccer) and Caroline Powers (golf); 2011-Emily MacLeod (cross country/track & field) and Caroline Powers (golf); 2010-Floor Rijpma (field hockey); 2009-Nicole Bush (cross country/track & field); 2008-Sara Brown (golf); 2007-Sara Brown (golf); 2006-Liz Shimek (basketball); 2005-Kristin Haynie (basketball); 2004-Jamie Krzyminski (cross country/track & field); 2003-Michelle Carson (cross country) and Jamie Krzyminski (cross country/track & field); 2002-Emily Bastel (golf); 2001-Summer Mitchell (swimming & diving); 2000-Emily Bastel (golf); 1999-Carrie Carpenter (softball); 1998-Jill Lusher (field hockey); 1997-Sevatheda Fynes (track & field); 1996-Val Sterk (volleyball); 1995-Karen Winslow (soccer); 1994-Susan Francis (track & field); 1993-Jodi Blotcher (gymnastics); 1992-Misty Allison (cross country/track & field); 1991-Julie Farrell-Ovenhouse (swimming & diving); 1990-Julie Farrell (swimming & diving); 1989-Julie Farrell (swimming & diving); 1988-Michelle Ingalls (gymnastics); 1987-Odessa Smalls (track & field); 1986-Mary Schoenle (swimming & diving); 1985-Kelly Becker (volleyball); 1984-Deanne Moore (softball); 1983-Judi Brown (track & field); 1982-Molly Brennan (track & field).
CHESTER BREWER LEADERSHIP AWARD
(Presented to a graduating senior in his or her last year of eligibility for distinguished performance in athletics and scholarship and for possessing a high degree of leadership qualities and skill.)
Winner: Jack Winkler (men's tennis)
DR. JAMES FEURIG ACHIEVEMENT & SERVICE AWARD
(Presented to a male or female graduating senior involved in athletics as a competitor or in a supporting role. The recipient should carry a minimum grade-point average of 3.0 or better, and in addition to athletic and academic success, demonstrate involvement in school/campus and community activities.)
Winner: Jack Winkler (men's tennis)
Jack Winkler's incredible comeback story from being medically sidelined for two seasons to a first-team All-Big Ten player has made him an inspiration for Spartans everywhere. He is just the fifth student-athlete at Michigan State to win both the Chester Brewer Leadership Award and Dr. James Feurig Achievement and Service Award in the same academic year.
Over the course of his career, Winkler has excelled at the highest levels of academics, athletics, leadership and service. Through his positions as the men's tennis team captain, SAAC President, and Big Ten SAAC Representative, Winkler has been able to be a voice for student-athletes at every level. He has taken part in numerous community service initiatives including March is Reading Month, the Student-Athlete Food Drive, and the Green Bandana Project for mental health awareness while maintaining a 3.76 grade point average.
A Birmingham, Michigan, native, Winkler earned first-team All-Big Ten honors after playing at No. 1 singles this past season. He wrapped up his senior season with a 10-11 record in dual matches, with nine of those wins being earned in singles action on the top court.
Winkler is also a four-time Academic All-Big Ten selection, a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar, and the recipient of the 2022 Gwendolyn Norrell Community Service and Leadership award from Michigan State Student-Athlete Support Services. He graduated this spring with a degree in finance.
Most impressive, however, is that Winkler has accomplished all of this while overcoming adversity and setbacks in his own personal health journey. Winkler was forced to forgo playing his junior and senior years due to an extensive battle with ulcerative colitis, which is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease. After being medically sidelined in 2019-20, Winkler served as a volunteer assistant coach in 2020-21 and continued to be an important leader for the Spartans, even though he was unable to play. It was questionable whether or not he would recover enough to return to the court, but he bounced back better than ever and commandeered both the No. 1 singles and doubles courts this year for the Green & White.
Winkler was most recently named one of five recipients of the Wilma Rudolph Student-Athlete Achievement Award at the N4A Convention in Las Vegas, which honors student-athletes who have overcome great personal, academic, and emotional odds to achieve academic success while participating in intercollegiate athletics. Earlier this month, Winkler was named the winner of the ITA National Most Improved Senior following his incredible senior comeback campaign in 2021-22, becoming the first Spartan to win an ITA national award. He was also named the ITA Midwest Regional winner for the Arthur Ashe Leadership and Sportsmanship Award and the Rafael Osuna Award.
Winkler is the first men's tennis player at Michigan State to receive the Chester Brewer Leadership Award, and just the second in program history to win the Dr. James Feurig Achievement and Service Award.
PAST WINNERS - CHESTER BREWER LEADERSHIP AWARD:
2021-Joshua Langford (basketball); 2020-Gabriella Douglas (gymnastics); 2019-Khari Willis (football) and DeJuan Jones (soccer); 2018-Lourawls "Tum Tum" Nairn Jr. (basketball); 2017-Dan Durkin (baseball); 2016-Jack Allen (football); 2015-Kori Moster (volleyball); 2014-Kristen Kelsay (volleyball); 2013- Caroline Powers (golf); 2012-Kirk Cousins (football); 2011-Brandon Eckerle (baseball); 2010-Kelly Moffitt (gymnastics); 2009-Jeff Lerg (hockey); 2008-Ryan Brehm (golf); 2007-Taren James (track & field); 2006-R.J. Boudro (wrestling); 2005-Kristin Haynie (basketball); 2004-Allison Fouch (golf); 2003-Sandy Lewis (softball); 2002-Adam Hall (hockey); 2001-Ann Cieszkowski (soccer); 2000-Leah Nilsson (cross country/track & field); 1999-Melissa Pryor (field hockey); 1998-Kyle Baker (cross country); 1997-Dana Cooke (volleyball) and Tamika Matlock (basketball); 1996-Courtney DeBolt (volleyball); 1995-Eric Snow (basketball); 1994-Rob Fredrickson (football); 1993-Steve Johnson (baseball); 1992-Mike Gilmore (hockey); 1991-Becky Belanger (volleyball) and Eileen Shea (basketball); 1990-Chris Willertz (football); 1989-Sheila Ovenhouse (softball); 1988-Pat Shurmur (football); 1987-Shane Bullough (football); 1986-Anthony Bell (football); 1985-Kelly Miller (hockey); 1984-Michael Brown (swimming & diving); 1983-Eliot Tabron (track & field); 1982-Shawn White (wrestling); 1981-Ray Stachowicz (football); 1980-Terry Donnelly (basketball); 1979-Rodger Bastien (baseball); 1978-Jeff Rudolph (gymnastics); 1977-Gary Domagalski (golf); 1976-Thomas Ross (hockey); 1975-No Award Presented; 1974-Val Washington (lacrosse); 1973-Jerry Sackmann (baseball); 1972-Greg Johnson (wrestling); 1971-Kim Hartman (cross country/track & field); 1970-Ronald Saul (football); 1969-Toby Towson (men's gymnastics); 1968-John Bailey (basketball/golf); 1967-Gary Dilley (swimming); 1966-Payton Fuller (soccer), James Curzi (gymnastics); 1965-Douglas Roberts (hockey/football); 1964-Sherman Lewis (track & field/football); 1963-George Azar (football/baseball); 1962-Stephen Johnson (men's gymnastics); 1961-William Steuart (swimming); 1960-Crawford "Forddy" Kennedy (cross country/track & field); 1959-Sam Williams (football); 1958-Dave Lean (cross country/track & field); 1957-Pat Wilson (football/basketball); 1956-Earl Morrall (football/baseball); 1955-John Matsock (football/baseball); 1954-Tom Yewcic (football/baseball); 1953-Bert McLachlan (swimming); 1952-Robert Carey (football/track & field/basketball); 1951-Everett Grandelius (football).
PAST WINNERS - DR. JAMES FEURIG ACHIEVEMENT & SERVICE AWARD
2021-Caroline Szabo (tennis); 2020-Scott Piper (swimming & diving); 2019-Bailey Higgins (field hockey); 2018-Lea Foerster (softball) and Jasper Koenen (tennis): 2017-Allyssah Fitterer (volleyball); 2016-Sarah Kovan (soccer); 2015-Ryan Keener (soccer); 2014-Kristen Kelsay (volleyball); 2013-Kevin Jackson (track & field); 2012-Jenilee Rathje (volleyball); 2011-Jenilee Rathje (volleyball); 2010-Ross Weaver (football); 2009-Katlyn Roggensack (gymnastics); 2008-Matthew McNichols (swimming & diving); 2007-John Masters (football); 2006-Taren James (track & field); 2005-Erin Carlson (soccer); 2004-Joe Tate (football); 2003-Brad Fast (hockey); 2002-Adam Hall (hockey); 2001-Deb White (field hockey); 2000-Jennifer Hanink (soccer); 1999-Melissa Pryor (field hockey); 1998-Dave Mudge (football); 1997-Stephanie Dueringer (cross country/track & field); 1996-Susan Gibson (soccer); 1995-Angela Howard (gymnastics); 1994-Mill Coleman (football); 1993-Molly West (tennis) and Chris Brown (track & field); 1992-Matt Steigenga (basketball); 1991-Jason Muzzatti (hockey); 1990-Dawna Wilson (gymnastics) and Todd Mercer (swimming & diving); 1989-Kelly Collister (volleyball); 1988-Keiko Timmerman (gymnastics); 1987-Kristen Nelson (swimming & diving) and Barry Fordham (basketball); 1986-John Wojciehowski (football); 1985-Bob Fossum (golf) and Riney Wilke (lacrosse); 1984-Michael Brown (swimming & diving); 1983-Syd Wells (golf); 1982-Molly Brennan (track & field); 1981-Ivan Merritt (gymnastics); 1980-Michael Longaker (basketball); 1979-Kevin Willitts (lacrosse); 1978-Joan Garety (golf); 1977-Herb Lindsay (track & field/cross country).
BIG TEN CONFERENCE MEDAL OF HONOR
(Presented to a male and female student-athlete at each conference institution for outstanding athletic and academic achievement)
Male Winner: Morgan Beadlescomb (men's cross country/track & field)
Already one of the most decorated athletes in Michigan State history for cross country and track & field, Morgan Beadlescomb continued to rack up numerous milestones and accolades both athletically and academically in his final season as a Spartan.
In his six years with MSU, Beadlescomb has totaled nine All-America nods, three Big Ten crowns, six school records, 2021 Big Ten Distinguished Scholar honors, four Academic All-B1G accolades and a pair of degrees.
A native of Algonac, Michigan, Beadlescomb used the 2021-22 season alone to collect five of his six total school records, his third Big Ten title and four NCAA All-America honors. In addition to claiming the Big Ten outdoor 10,000m crown and placing fifth in the NCAA Cross Country Championships, the Spartan also racked up a pair of NCAA silver medals by taking second place in the mile finals of the NCAA Indoor Championships and finishing runner-up in the NCAA Outdoor Championships' 5000m finals. He further added to his trophy case with two athlete of the year awards, being named the Big Ten Cross Country Men's Athlete of the Year and the USTFCCCA Great Lakes Region Men's Indoor Track Athlete of the Year.
Academically, Beadlescomb used his final year at MSU to gain Academic All-Big Ten distinction for track and field and receive a master's degree in electrical and computer engineering in May, previously earning his bachelor's in electrical and computer engineering in 2020.
Beadlescomb becomes the first Michigan State men's cross country/track & field athlete to win the Big Ten Conference Medal of Honor since Steve Manz in 2004, and the 11th overall in program history.
PAST WINNERS - BIG TEN CONFERENCE MEDAL OF HONOR MALE WINNERS:
2021-Bryce Kelley (baseball); 2020-Cassius Winston (basketball); 2019-Khari Willis (football); 2018-Jimmy Fiscus (soccer); 2017-Josiah Price (football); 2016-Jack Allen (football); 2015-Mike Sadler (football); 2014-Greg Wolfe (hockey); 2013-Jacob Jarzen (swimming and diving); 2012-Kirk Cousins (football); 2011-Brandon Eckerle (baseball); 2010-Blair White (football); 2009-Doug DeMartin (soccer); 2008-Drew Neitzel (basketball); 2007-Drew Stanton (football); 2006-Drew Stanton (football); 2005-Chris Hill (basketball); 2004-Steve Manz (track & field); 2003-Tyler Robinson (soccer); 2002-Josh Thornhill (football); 2001-Shaun Mason (football); 2000-Shawn Horcoff (hockey); 1999-Steve Schell (cross country/track & field); 1998-Tyler Harlton (hockey); 1997-Tyler Harlton (hockey); 1996-Brian Picklo (wrestling); 1995-Emilio Collins (wrestling); 1994-Steve Wasylk (football); 1993-Dave Smith (cross country/track & field); 1992-Stuart Hirschman (baseball); 1991-Walt Bartels (hockey); 1990-Walt Bartels (hockey); 1989-Danton Cole (hockey); 1988-Michael Davidson (baseball); 1987-Dean Altobelli (football); 1986-Don McSween (hockey); 1985-Carlton Evans (lacrosse); 1984-Kelly Miller (hockey); 1983-Michael Brown (swimming & diving); 1982-Morten Andersen (football); 1981-Jay Vincent (basketball); 1980-Mark Brammer (football); 1979-Gregory Kelser (basketball); 1978-Larry Bethea (football); 1977-Tyrone Willingham (football/baseball); 1976-Pat Milkovich (wrestling); 1975-Dennis Olmstead (hockey); 1974-Robert Cassleman (track & field); 1973-Kenneth Popejoy (track & field); 1972-Herb Washington (track & field); 1971-Thomas Muir (wrestling); 1970-Richard Saul (football); 1969-Allen Brenner (football); 1968-Dale Anderson (wrestling); 1967-Eugene Washington (football, track & field); 1966-Steve Juday (football); 1965-David Price (gymnastics); 1964-George (Pete) Gent (basketball); 1963-Richard Schloemer (fencing); 1962-Edward Ryan (football); 1961-William Reynolds (track & field/cross country); 1960-Stan Tarshis (gymnastics); 1959-Robert Anderegg (basketball); 1958-Robert Jasson (hockey); 1957-Selwyn Jones (track & field); 1956-Carl Nystrom (football); 1955-Kevan Gosper (track & field); 1954-Robert Hoke (wrestling); 1953-John Wilson (football); 1952-Orris Bender (wrestling); 1951-Everett Grandelius (football).
Female Winner: Lea Mitchell (women's gymnastics)
Gymnast Lea Mitchell (Boynton Beach, Florida) was a five-year member of the gymnastics team and graduated this spring with her master's in international reporting, having completed the degree in just one year. She finished out the year with a 4.0 GPA, her ninth consecutive semester with a perfect grade point average.
Mitchell recently earned CoSIDA Academic All-American status, becoming just the second Spartan gymnast to do so, joining Angela Howard who received the honor consecutively in 1994 and 1995. Throughout her career as a Spartan, she has been a four-time Academic All-Big Ten and WCGA Academic All-America selection and was named a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar three times. In 2021, she received the illustrious Big Ten Conference Wayne Duke Postgraduate Award, the first MSU female student-athlete to receive this honor and only the second Spartan overall. She has also been recognized by MSU Student-Athlete Support Services (SASS) several times, including receiving the Provost's Award her freshman year and as a three-time recipient of the Scholar-Athlete Award.
Mitchell was a mainstay in MSU's lineup since the beginning of her time as a Spartan, competing all-around for four seasons before moving to consistent spots on bars, beam and floor in 2022. She earned Second-Team All-B1G honors in 2019 and was named to the First Team list in 2020. This season, Mitchell posted season and career-high scores of 9.900 on bars and 9.925 on beam, and a season-best of 9.900 on floor.
Mitchell is the third recipient of the Big Ten Conference Medal of Honor from the Spartan gymnastics program in the last four years, after former teammates Gabriella Douglas and Jessica Ling garnered the accolade in 2020 and 2019, respectively. Overall, Mitchell is the seventh MSU gymnast to earn the B1G Medal of Honor, joining Lisa Burt (2016), Kristen Coleman (2007), Ruth Aguayo (1993) and Kim Hartwick (1988).
PAST WINNERS - BIG TEN CONFERENCE MEDAL OF HONOR FEMALE WINNERS:
2021-Amanda Ling (swimming & diving); 2020-Gabriella Douglas (gymnastics); 2019-Jessica Ling (gymnastics); 2018-Katelyn Daniels (track & field); 2017-Alexis Wiersma (cross country/track & field); 2016-Lisa Burt (gymnastics); 2015-Abby Barker (field hockey); 2014-Kristen Henn (field hockey); 2013-Caroline Powers (golf); 2012-Jenilee Rathje (volleyball); 2011-Aimee Neff (golf); 2010-Allyssa DeHaan (basketball); 2009-Sara Schmidt (rowing); 2008-Kate Burdick (rowing); 2007-Kristen Coleman (gymnastics); 2006-Liz Shimek (basketball); 2005-Veerle Goudswaard (field hockey); 2004-Michelle Carson (cross country/track & field); 2003-Stephanie Anisko (swimming & diving); 2002-Carly Weiden (swimming & diving) and Krista Buzzell (crew); 2001-Carly Weiden (swimming & diving); 2000-Carly Weiden (swimming & diving); 1999-Carrie Carpenter (softball); 1998-Melissa Pryor (field hockey); 1997-Val Sterk (volleyball); 1996-Patti Raduenz (softball); 1995-Laura Bell (cross country/track & field); 1994-Laura Bell (cross country/track & field); 1993-Ruth Aguayo (gymnastics); 1992-Misty Allison (cross country/track & field); 1991-Emily Coatney (soccer); 1990-Eileen Shea (basketball); 1989-Mary Schoenle (swimming & diving); 1988-Kim Hartwick (gymnastics); 1987-Lisa Marino (golf); 1986-Julie Polakowski (basketball); 1985-Kelly Belanger (basketball); 1984-Anne Pewe (cross country/track & field); 1983-Karen Wells (basketball); 1982-Lisa Speaker (golf).
AWARD – WINNER
George Alderton Male Athlete of the Year – Kenneth Walker III (football)
George Alderton Female Athlete of the Year – Jenna Magness (women's cross country/track & field)
Chester Brewer Leadership Award – Jack Winkler (men's tennis)
Dr. James Feurig Achievement and Service Award – Jack Winkler (men's tennis)
Big Ten Conference Medal of Honor (Male) – Morgan Beadlescomb (men's cross country/track & field)
Big Ten Conference Medal of Honor (Female) – Lea Mitchell (gymnastics)
Big Ten Outstanding Sportsmanship Award – Farai Mutatu (men's soccer)/ Mary Lewis (women's tennis)
GEORGE ALDERTON MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
(Presented to top male athlete of 2021-22)
Winner: Kenneth Walker III (football)
Kenneth Walker III, who transferred to Michigan State from Wake Forest in 2021, electrified the Spartans in his only year wearing the Green and White, sparking the team to an 11-2 record and a Top-10 finish in the national polls (No. 8 Coaches, No. 9 Associated Press).
A unanimous first-team All-American who became the first Spartan to win Doak Walker Award and the Walter Camp National Player of the Year, Walker ranked second in the FBS in rushing in 2021 with 1,636 yards (136.3 ypg). The Big Ten Running Back of the Year and the AP Big Ten Co-Offensive Player of the Year also ranked eighth in the FBS with 18 rushing touchdowns. His 1,636 rushing yards were the fourth most by a Spartan in a single season in school history, and he was the fastest Spartan to reach 1,000 yards in a single season in terms of carries (153 carries). In addition, his 18 rushing TDs tied for fifth most in an MSU season and his 19 overall TDs (one receiving score) tied for fourth most.
Walker's explosiveness was on display all season long, transforming the Spartans into one of the best offenses in the Big Ten. According to Pro Football Focus, he led the FBS in rushing yards after contact (1,168) and ranked second with 89 missed forced tackles; he also ranked among the FBS leaders in 20-plus yard carries (first with 21), 10-plus yard carries (tied for third with 46), yards from scrimmage (sixth with 143.8 ypg), rushing TDs (eighth with 18), carries (eighth with 263), scoring (11th with 9.5 ppg), total TDs (ninth with 19) and rushing yards per carry (15th with 6.2 avg.).
A Maxwell Award finalist who finished sixth in the Heisman Trophy voting, Walker had eight 100-yard rushing games in 2021, including two 200-yard games (264 vs. Northwestern on Sept. 3; 172 at Miami on Sept. 18; 126 vs. Western Kentucky on Sept. 25; 233 at Rutgers on Oct. 9; 197 vs. Michigan on Oct. 30; 136 at Purdue on Nov. 6; 143 vs. Maryland on Nov. 13; 138 vs. Penn State on Nov. 27).
Following a record-breaking performance in the 37-33 win over No. 6 Michigan on Oct. 30, Walker collected several honors, including National Offensive Player of the Week (Walter Camp Football Foundation, Maxwell Award, The Athletic) and Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week. Walker rushed for five touchdowns, the most by any player ever against the Wolverines, and finished with a total of 197 yards on just 23 carries (8.6 avg.). His scores came on runs of 27 and 8 yards in the second quarter, 1 yard in the third quarter, and 58 and 23 yards in the fourth quarter. He also had 208 all-purpose yards (197 rushing, 11 receiving). The five TDs tied for the second most in school history (record: six by Blake Ezor vs. Northwestern in 1989; five by Javon Ringer vs. Eastern Michigan in 2008).
Walker had previously etched his name into the history books earlier in the month, as his 94-yard touchdown run in the third quarter at Rutgers on Oct. 9 was the longest rush in the 125-year history of Michigan State football, bettering a 90-yard run by Lynn Chandnois vs. Arizona in 1949. It was also the longest offensive play from scrimmage in school history, topping a 93-yard pass from Tony Banks to Nigea Carter vs. Indiana in 1994. Walker finished with 29 carries for 233 yards against the Scarlet Knights.
Walker burst onto the scene with a record-setting debut as a Spartan, rushing for a career-high 264 yards – the seventh-highest total in school history – while scoring a career-high four touchdowns to lead the Spartans past Northwestern on Sept. 3. It marked the most rushing yards by a Spartan in a debut wearing the Green and White. Walker became just the second Spartan to record more than 250 rushing yards and four touchdowns in the same game (Eric Allen, school-record 350 yards and four TDs vs. Purdue on Oct. 30, 1971). On his first carry as a Spartan, Walker sprinted 75 yards to the end zone against the Wildcats.
Selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the second round (No. 41 overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft, Walker is the first football player to be named the George Alderton Male Athlete of the Year since Darqueze Dennard in 2014.
PAST WINNERS - ALDERTON MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR:
2021-Morgan Beadlescomb (cross country/track & field); 2020-Cassius Winston (basketball); 2019-Cassius Winston (basketball); 2018-Miles Bridges (basketball) and Tim Ehrhardt (track & field); 2017-Tim Ehrhardt (track & field); 2016-Denzel Valentine (basketball); 2015-Jake Hildebrand (hockey); 2014-Darqueze Dennard (football); 2013-Le'Veon Bell (football); 2012-Draymond Green (basketball); 2011-Greg Jones (football); 2010-Greg Jones (football); 2009-Franklin Gomez (wrestling); 2008-Jeff Lerg (hockey); 2007-Jeff Lerg (hockey); 2006-Brad Gebauer (track & field); 2005-Nick Simmons (wrestling); 2004-Jeff Smoker (football); 2003-Charles Rogers (football); 2002-Paul Terek (track & field); 2001-Ryan Miller (hockey); 2000-Mateen Cleaves (basketball); 1999-Mateen Cleaves (basketball) and Mike York (hockey); 1998-Chad Alban (hockey); 1997-Reid Friedrichs (soccer); 1996-David Morgan (wrestling); 1995-Shawn Respert (basketball); 1994-Emilio Collins (wrestling); 1993-Bryan Smolinski (hockey); 1992-Anthony Hamm (cross country/track & field); 1991-Steve Smith (basketball); 1990-Kip Miller (hockey) and Percy Snow (football); 1989-Bobby Reynolds (hockey); 1988-Todd Krumm (football/baseball); 1987-Don McSween (hockey); 1986-Mike Donnelly (hockey), Lorenzo White (football), Scott Skiles (basketball); 1985-Sam Vincent (basketball); 1984-Carl Banks (football); 1983-Ron Scott (hockey); 1982-Ron Scott (hockey).
GEORGE ALDERTON FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
(Presented to top female athlete of 2021-22)
Winner: Jenna Magness (women's cross country/track & field)
Following a breakout 2020-21 season that saw her win the 2021 George Alderton Award, Jenna Magness was somehow able to top that output this season. Through cross country, indoor track and outdoor track seasons, she ended her final campaign in the Green and White by adding on three more Big Ten crowns, three more All-America distinctions and a NCAA bronze medal.
She is the first back-to-back women's winner of the George Alderton Award since golfer Sarah Burnham in 2017 and 2018. This is the fourth-straight year that a Spartan track & field athlete has earned the top MSU honor, joining Annie Fuller (2020) and Aysa Reynolds (2019).
Magness took advantage of a full cross country season, starting out by earning Big Ten Athlete of the Week for her performances at the Griak Invitational and Nuttycombe Invitational. Hitting the postseason, Magness was the Big Ten Championships' bronze medalist for the second-straight season before continuing into the NCAA Great Lakes Regionals, where she was the top MSU finisher in fourth place. At the NCAA Championships, Magness made the most of it by running a personal-best 6K time of 19:42.1 to place 14th, capturing her second NCAA All-American award in cross country.
Indoor season saw Magness set personal bests at three different distances in her first three meets, as she won the mile at the Simmons-Harvey Invitational with a 4:41.31 finish before taking second at the IU Relays with a 3000m time of 9:05.62. She then broke her own 5000m school record with a winning time of 15:36.60 at the Music City Challenge, while the Big Ten Indoor Championships saw Magness earn silver in the 3000m and repeat as the 5000m champion. She ended the winter slate by placing sixth in the 5000m at the NCAA Indoor Championships, picking up another NCAA First Team All-America nod.
A late start to the outdoor season did not slow down the Grand Ledge, Michigan, native, as Magness set a new 1500m PR to open the spring, placing first at the Louisville Invitational with a 4:16.89 time. She then shattered her previous school record for the outdoor 5000m when she placed second at the Virginia Challenge using a 15:26.21 time. She then became just the second Spartan ever to win the 5000m and 10,000m titles at the same Big Ten Outdoor Championships, claiming the 10,000m crown in her first race at the distance and being named the Women's Track Athlete of the Championships. Finishing second in the 10,000m semifinals at the NCAA East Preliminary Round, Magness then capped off her career by posting a PR time of 32:59.96 to take bronze in the 10,000m finals at the NCAA Outdoor Championships, garnering NCAA First Team All-America status again.
Having earned her bachelor's degree in chemical engineering in May, Magness was named to the CoSIDA Academic All-America Third Team.
Magness is the second track & field athlete to win the award twice, following in the footsteps of Jamie Krzyminski in the 2003 and 2004. Kryzminski is also the only other Spartan to win the 5000m and 10,000m titles in the same Big Ten Outdoor Championships.
Magness is also the 15th different track & field athlete to be named the George Alderton Female Athlete of the Year, joining Fuller (2020), Reynolds (2019), Leah O'Connor (2015), Beth Rohl (2013), Emily MacLeod (2011), Nicole Bush (2009), Krzyminski (2004 and 2003), Michelle Carson (2003), Sevatheda Fynes (1997), Susan Francis (1994), Misty Allison (1992), Odessa Smalls (1987), Judi Brown (1983) and Molly Brennan (1982).
PAST WINNERS - ALDERTON FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR:
2021-Jenna Magness (track & field/cross country); 2020-Annie Fuller (track & field) and Valery Plata (golf); 2019-Asya Reynolds (track & field) and Ally Geer-Park (golf); 2018-Sarah Burnham (golf); 2017-Sarah Burnham (golf) and Tori Jankoska (basketball); 2016-Aerial Powers (basketball); 2015-Leah O'Connor (cross country/track & field); 2014-Allyssa Ferrell (golf); 2013-Caroline Powers (golf) and Beth Rohl (track & field); 2012-Laura Heyboer (soccer) and Caroline Powers (golf); 2011-Emily MacLeod (cross country/track & field) and Caroline Powers (golf); 2010-Floor Rijpma (field hockey); 2009-Nicole Bush (cross country/track & field); 2008-Sara Brown (golf); 2007-Sara Brown (golf); 2006-Liz Shimek (basketball); 2005-Kristin Haynie (basketball); 2004-Jamie Krzyminski (cross country/track & field); 2003-Michelle Carson (cross country) and Jamie Krzyminski (cross country/track & field); 2002-Emily Bastel (golf); 2001-Summer Mitchell (swimming & diving); 2000-Emily Bastel (golf); 1999-Carrie Carpenter (softball); 1998-Jill Lusher (field hockey); 1997-Sevatheda Fynes (track & field); 1996-Val Sterk (volleyball); 1995-Karen Winslow (soccer); 1994-Susan Francis (track & field); 1993-Jodi Blotcher (gymnastics); 1992-Misty Allison (cross country/track & field); 1991-Julie Farrell-Ovenhouse (swimming & diving); 1990-Julie Farrell (swimming & diving); 1989-Julie Farrell (swimming & diving); 1988-Michelle Ingalls (gymnastics); 1987-Odessa Smalls (track & field); 1986-Mary Schoenle (swimming & diving); 1985-Kelly Becker (volleyball); 1984-Deanne Moore (softball); 1983-Judi Brown (track & field); 1982-Molly Brennan (track & field).
CHESTER BREWER LEADERSHIP AWARD
(Presented to a graduating senior in his or her last year of eligibility for distinguished performance in athletics and scholarship and for possessing a high degree of leadership qualities and skill.)
Winner: Jack Winkler (men's tennis)
DR. JAMES FEURIG ACHIEVEMENT & SERVICE AWARD
(Presented to a male or female graduating senior involved in athletics as a competitor or in a supporting role. The recipient should carry a minimum grade-point average of 3.0 or better, and in addition to athletic and academic success, demonstrate involvement in school/campus and community activities.)
Winner: Jack Winkler (men's tennis)
Jack Winkler's incredible comeback story from being medically sidelined for two seasons to a first-team All-Big Ten player has made him an inspiration for Spartans everywhere. He is just the fifth student-athlete at Michigan State to win both the Chester Brewer Leadership Award and Dr. James Feurig Achievement and Service Award in the same academic year.
Over the course of his career, Winkler has excelled at the highest levels of academics, athletics, leadership and service. Through his positions as the men's tennis team captain, SAAC President, and Big Ten SAAC Representative, Winkler has been able to be a voice for student-athletes at every level. He has taken part in numerous community service initiatives including March is Reading Month, the Student-Athlete Food Drive, and the Green Bandana Project for mental health awareness while maintaining a 3.76 grade point average.
A Birmingham, Michigan, native, Winkler earned first-team All-Big Ten honors after playing at No. 1 singles this past season. He wrapped up his senior season with a 10-11 record in dual matches, with nine of those wins being earned in singles action on the top court.
Winkler is also a four-time Academic All-Big Ten selection, a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar, and the recipient of the 2022 Gwendolyn Norrell Community Service and Leadership award from Michigan State Student-Athlete Support Services. He graduated this spring with a degree in finance.
Most impressive, however, is that Winkler has accomplished all of this while overcoming adversity and setbacks in his own personal health journey. Winkler was forced to forgo playing his junior and senior years due to an extensive battle with ulcerative colitis, which is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease. After being medically sidelined in 2019-20, Winkler served as a volunteer assistant coach in 2020-21 and continued to be an important leader for the Spartans, even though he was unable to play. It was questionable whether or not he would recover enough to return to the court, but he bounced back better than ever and commandeered both the No. 1 singles and doubles courts this year for the Green & White.
Winkler was most recently named one of five recipients of the Wilma Rudolph Student-Athlete Achievement Award at the N4A Convention in Las Vegas, which honors student-athletes who have overcome great personal, academic, and emotional odds to achieve academic success while participating in intercollegiate athletics. Earlier this month, Winkler was named the winner of the ITA National Most Improved Senior following his incredible senior comeback campaign in 2021-22, becoming the first Spartan to win an ITA national award. He was also named the ITA Midwest Regional winner for the Arthur Ashe Leadership and Sportsmanship Award and the Rafael Osuna Award.
Winkler is the first men's tennis player at Michigan State to receive the Chester Brewer Leadership Award, and just the second in program history to win the Dr. James Feurig Achievement and Service Award.
PAST WINNERS - CHESTER BREWER LEADERSHIP AWARD:
2021-Joshua Langford (basketball); 2020-Gabriella Douglas (gymnastics); 2019-Khari Willis (football) and DeJuan Jones (soccer); 2018-Lourawls "Tum Tum" Nairn Jr. (basketball); 2017-Dan Durkin (baseball); 2016-Jack Allen (football); 2015-Kori Moster (volleyball); 2014-Kristen Kelsay (volleyball); 2013- Caroline Powers (golf); 2012-Kirk Cousins (football); 2011-Brandon Eckerle (baseball); 2010-Kelly Moffitt (gymnastics); 2009-Jeff Lerg (hockey); 2008-Ryan Brehm (golf); 2007-Taren James (track & field); 2006-R.J. Boudro (wrestling); 2005-Kristin Haynie (basketball); 2004-Allison Fouch (golf); 2003-Sandy Lewis (softball); 2002-Adam Hall (hockey); 2001-Ann Cieszkowski (soccer); 2000-Leah Nilsson (cross country/track & field); 1999-Melissa Pryor (field hockey); 1998-Kyle Baker (cross country); 1997-Dana Cooke (volleyball) and Tamika Matlock (basketball); 1996-Courtney DeBolt (volleyball); 1995-Eric Snow (basketball); 1994-Rob Fredrickson (football); 1993-Steve Johnson (baseball); 1992-Mike Gilmore (hockey); 1991-Becky Belanger (volleyball) and Eileen Shea (basketball); 1990-Chris Willertz (football); 1989-Sheila Ovenhouse (softball); 1988-Pat Shurmur (football); 1987-Shane Bullough (football); 1986-Anthony Bell (football); 1985-Kelly Miller (hockey); 1984-Michael Brown (swimming & diving); 1983-Eliot Tabron (track & field); 1982-Shawn White (wrestling); 1981-Ray Stachowicz (football); 1980-Terry Donnelly (basketball); 1979-Rodger Bastien (baseball); 1978-Jeff Rudolph (gymnastics); 1977-Gary Domagalski (golf); 1976-Thomas Ross (hockey); 1975-No Award Presented; 1974-Val Washington (lacrosse); 1973-Jerry Sackmann (baseball); 1972-Greg Johnson (wrestling); 1971-Kim Hartman (cross country/track & field); 1970-Ronald Saul (football); 1969-Toby Towson (men's gymnastics); 1968-John Bailey (basketball/golf); 1967-Gary Dilley (swimming); 1966-Payton Fuller (soccer), James Curzi (gymnastics); 1965-Douglas Roberts (hockey/football); 1964-Sherman Lewis (track & field/football); 1963-George Azar (football/baseball); 1962-Stephen Johnson (men's gymnastics); 1961-William Steuart (swimming); 1960-Crawford "Forddy" Kennedy (cross country/track & field); 1959-Sam Williams (football); 1958-Dave Lean (cross country/track & field); 1957-Pat Wilson (football/basketball); 1956-Earl Morrall (football/baseball); 1955-John Matsock (football/baseball); 1954-Tom Yewcic (football/baseball); 1953-Bert McLachlan (swimming); 1952-Robert Carey (football/track & field/basketball); 1951-Everett Grandelius (football).
PAST WINNERS - DR. JAMES FEURIG ACHIEVEMENT & SERVICE AWARD
2021-Caroline Szabo (tennis); 2020-Scott Piper (swimming & diving); 2019-Bailey Higgins (field hockey); 2018-Lea Foerster (softball) and Jasper Koenen (tennis): 2017-Allyssah Fitterer (volleyball); 2016-Sarah Kovan (soccer); 2015-Ryan Keener (soccer); 2014-Kristen Kelsay (volleyball); 2013-Kevin Jackson (track & field); 2012-Jenilee Rathje (volleyball); 2011-Jenilee Rathje (volleyball); 2010-Ross Weaver (football); 2009-Katlyn Roggensack (gymnastics); 2008-Matthew McNichols (swimming & diving); 2007-John Masters (football); 2006-Taren James (track & field); 2005-Erin Carlson (soccer); 2004-Joe Tate (football); 2003-Brad Fast (hockey); 2002-Adam Hall (hockey); 2001-Deb White (field hockey); 2000-Jennifer Hanink (soccer); 1999-Melissa Pryor (field hockey); 1998-Dave Mudge (football); 1997-Stephanie Dueringer (cross country/track & field); 1996-Susan Gibson (soccer); 1995-Angela Howard (gymnastics); 1994-Mill Coleman (football); 1993-Molly West (tennis) and Chris Brown (track & field); 1992-Matt Steigenga (basketball); 1991-Jason Muzzatti (hockey); 1990-Dawna Wilson (gymnastics) and Todd Mercer (swimming & diving); 1989-Kelly Collister (volleyball); 1988-Keiko Timmerman (gymnastics); 1987-Kristen Nelson (swimming & diving) and Barry Fordham (basketball); 1986-John Wojciehowski (football); 1985-Bob Fossum (golf) and Riney Wilke (lacrosse); 1984-Michael Brown (swimming & diving); 1983-Syd Wells (golf); 1982-Molly Brennan (track & field); 1981-Ivan Merritt (gymnastics); 1980-Michael Longaker (basketball); 1979-Kevin Willitts (lacrosse); 1978-Joan Garety (golf); 1977-Herb Lindsay (track & field/cross country).
BIG TEN CONFERENCE MEDAL OF HONOR
(Presented to a male and female student-athlete at each conference institution for outstanding athletic and academic achievement)
Male Winner: Morgan Beadlescomb (men's cross country/track & field)
Already one of the most decorated athletes in Michigan State history for cross country and track & field, Morgan Beadlescomb continued to rack up numerous milestones and accolades both athletically and academically in his final season as a Spartan.
In his six years with MSU, Beadlescomb has totaled nine All-America nods, three Big Ten crowns, six school records, 2021 Big Ten Distinguished Scholar honors, four Academic All-B1G accolades and a pair of degrees.
A native of Algonac, Michigan, Beadlescomb used the 2021-22 season alone to collect five of his six total school records, his third Big Ten title and four NCAA All-America honors. In addition to claiming the Big Ten outdoor 10,000m crown and placing fifth in the NCAA Cross Country Championships, the Spartan also racked up a pair of NCAA silver medals by taking second place in the mile finals of the NCAA Indoor Championships and finishing runner-up in the NCAA Outdoor Championships' 5000m finals. He further added to his trophy case with two athlete of the year awards, being named the Big Ten Cross Country Men's Athlete of the Year and the USTFCCCA Great Lakes Region Men's Indoor Track Athlete of the Year.
Academically, Beadlescomb used his final year at MSU to gain Academic All-Big Ten distinction for track and field and receive a master's degree in electrical and computer engineering in May, previously earning his bachelor's in electrical and computer engineering in 2020.
Beadlescomb becomes the first Michigan State men's cross country/track & field athlete to win the Big Ten Conference Medal of Honor since Steve Manz in 2004, and the 11th overall in program history.
PAST WINNERS - BIG TEN CONFERENCE MEDAL OF HONOR MALE WINNERS:
2021-Bryce Kelley (baseball); 2020-Cassius Winston (basketball); 2019-Khari Willis (football); 2018-Jimmy Fiscus (soccer); 2017-Josiah Price (football); 2016-Jack Allen (football); 2015-Mike Sadler (football); 2014-Greg Wolfe (hockey); 2013-Jacob Jarzen (swimming and diving); 2012-Kirk Cousins (football); 2011-Brandon Eckerle (baseball); 2010-Blair White (football); 2009-Doug DeMartin (soccer); 2008-Drew Neitzel (basketball); 2007-Drew Stanton (football); 2006-Drew Stanton (football); 2005-Chris Hill (basketball); 2004-Steve Manz (track & field); 2003-Tyler Robinson (soccer); 2002-Josh Thornhill (football); 2001-Shaun Mason (football); 2000-Shawn Horcoff (hockey); 1999-Steve Schell (cross country/track & field); 1998-Tyler Harlton (hockey); 1997-Tyler Harlton (hockey); 1996-Brian Picklo (wrestling); 1995-Emilio Collins (wrestling); 1994-Steve Wasylk (football); 1993-Dave Smith (cross country/track & field); 1992-Stuart Hirschman (baseball); 1991-Walt Bartels (hockey); 1990-Walt Bartels (hockey); 1989-Danton Cole (hockey); 1988-Michael Davidson (baseball); 1987-Dean Altobelli (football); 1986-Don McSween (hockey); 1985-Carlton Evans (lacrosse); 1984-Kelly Miller (hockey); 1983-Michael Brown (swimming & diving); 1982-Morten Andersen (football); 1981-Jay Vincent (basketball); 1980-Mark Brammer (football); 1979-Gregory Kelser (basketball); 1978-Larry Bethea (football); 1977-Tyrone Willingham (football/baseball); 1976-Pat Milkovich (wrestling); 1975-Dennis Olmstead (hockey); 1974-Robert Cassleman (track & field); 1973-Kenneth Popejoy (track & field); 1972-Herb Washington (track & field); 1971-Thomas Muir (wrestling); 1970-Richard Saul (football); 1969-Allen Brenner (football); 1968-Dale Anderson (wrestling); 1967-Eugene Washington (football, track & field); 1966-Steve Juday (football); 1965-David Price (gymnastics); 1964-George (Pete) Gent (basketball); 1963-Richard Schloemer (fencing); 1962-Edward Ryan (football); 1961-William Reynolds (track & field/cross country); 1960-Stan Tarshis (gymnastics); 1959-Robert Anderegg (basketball); 1958-Robert Jasson (hockey); 1957-Selwyn Jones (track & field); 1956-Carl Nystrom (football); 1955-Kevan Gosper (track & field); 1954-Robert Hoke (wrestling); 1953-John Wilson (football); 1952-Orris Bender (wrestling); 1951-Everett Grandelius (football).
Female Winner: Lea Mitchell (women's gymnastics)
Gymnast Lea Mitchell (Boynton Beach, Florida) was a five-year member of the gymnastics team and graduated this spring with her master's in international reporting, having completed the degree in just one year. She finished out the year with a 4.0 GPA, her ninth consecutive semester with a perfect grade point average.
Mitchell recently earned CoSIDA Academic All-American status, becoming just the second Spartan gymnast to do so, joining Angela Howard who received the honor consecutively in 1994 and 1995. Throughout her career as a Spartan, she has been a four-time Academic All-Big Ten and WCGA Academic All-America selection and was named a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar three times. In 2021, she received the illustrious Big Ten Conference Wayne Duke Postgraduate Award, the first MSU female student-athlete to receive this honor and only the second Spartan overall. She has also been recognized by MSU Student-Athlete Support Services (SASS) several times, including receiving the Provost's Award her freshman year and as a three-time recipient of the Scholar-Athlete Award.
Mitchell was a mainstay in MSU's lineup since the beginning of her time as a Spartan, competing all-around for four seasons before moving to consistent spots on bars, beam and floor in 2022. She earned Second-Team All-B1G honors in 2019 and was named to the First Team list in 2020. This season, Mitchell posted season and career-high scores of 9.900 on bars and 9.925 on beam, and a season-best of 9.900 on floor.
Mitchell is the third recipient of the Big Ten Conference Medal of Honor from the Spartan gymnastics program in the last four years, after former teammates Gabriella Douglas and Jessica Ling garnered the accolade in 2020 and 2019, respectively. Overall, Mitchell is the seventh MSU gymnast to earn the B1G Medal of Honor, joining Lisa Burt (2016), Kristen Coleman (2007), Ruth Aguayo (1993) and Kim Hartwick (1988).
PAST WINNERS - BIG TEN CONFERENCE MEDAL OF HONOR FEMALE WINNERS:
2021-Amanda Ling (swimming & diving); 2020-Gabriella Douglas (gymnastics); 2019-Jessica Ling (gymnastics); 2018-Katelyn Daniels (track & field); 2017-Alexis Wiersma (cross country/track & field); 2016-Lisa Burt (gymnastics); 2015-Abby Barker (field hockey); 2014-Kristen Henn (field hockey); 2013-Caroline Powers (golf); 2012-Jenilee Rathje (volleyball); 2011-Aimee Neff (golf); 2010-Allyssa DeHaan (basketball); 2009-Sara Schmidt (rowing); 2008-Kate Burdick (rowing); 2007-Kristen Coleman (gymnastics); 2006-Liz Shimek (basketball); 2005-Veerle Goudswaard (field hockey); 2004-Michelle Carson (cross country/track & field); 2003-Stephanie Anisko (swimming & diving); 2002-Carly Weiden (swimming & diving) and Krista Buzzell (crew); 2001-Carly Weiden (swimming & diving); 2000-Carly Weiden (swimming & diving); 1999-Carrie Carpenter (softball); 1998-Melissa Pryor (field hockey); 1997-Val Sterk (volleyball); 1996-Patti Raduenz (softball); 1995-Laura Bell (cross country/track & field); 1994-Laura Bell (cross country/track & field); 1993-Ruth Aguayo (gymnastics); 1992-Misty Allison (cross country/track & field); 1991-Emily Coatney (soccer); 1990-Eileen Shea (basketball); 1989-Mary Schoenle (swimming & diving); 1988-Kim Hartwick (gymnastics); 1987-Lisa Marino (golf); 1986-Julie Polakowski (basketball); 1985-Kelly Belanger (basketball); 1984-Anne Pewe (cross country/track & field); 1983-Karen Wells (basketball); 1982-Lisa Speaker (golf).
Players Mentioned
Distance
/ Track and Field
D
/ Men's Soccer
/ Cross Country
F
/ Men's Soccer
Distance
/ Track and Field
All-Around
/ Women's Gymnastics
F
/ Men's Soccer
RB
/ Football
S
/ Football
/ Men's Tennis
2025 Varsity S Awards
Monday, September 15
2025 Hall of Fame - Caroline Powers Induction
Monday, September 15
2025 Hall of Fame - Kori Moster Induction
Monday, September 15
2025 Hall of Fame - Nick Simmons Induction
Monday, September 15