MACON – Former Liberty County Panther Josh McNair, currently a senior on Kennesaw State’s track team, was named the Atlantic Sun Conference Men’s Field Athlete of the Week on Wednesday, following a successful weekend at the Niswonger Invitational in Johnson City, Tenn.

The Hinesville native finished second in two events at the Owls’ second meet of the indoor track season. He placed second in the shot put with a throw of 54’2" and second in the weight throw with a distance of 59’ 4.75".

"First and foremost, I would like to thank God for blessing me with the ability to win such an award," McNair said. "Even though I was not very satisfied with my performance, I am very pleased to be honored in such a way."

McNair holds the Kennesaw State Indoor school records in both events, with previous efforts of 54’11.25" in the shot put and 60’5.50" in the weight throw.

"Coach [Jason] Carruthers and I have been working very hard at practice and I know this is just the beginning of what will be a great season for me as long as I keep pushing toward my goals," McNair said.

This is McNair’s second nod as athlete of the week representing the Black and Gold His first came on March 26, 2008 when he broke school outdoor records in the discus, hammer throw and shot put.

McNair, who was also named the 2008 Atlantic Sun Conference champion in the indoor weight throw and shot put, and his teammates travel to Gainesville, Fla. this weekend for the Jimmy Carnes Invitational.

They will take part in scored duals against A-Sun counterparts Jacksonville and North Florida, as well as Florida Atlantic in preparation for the A-Sun Championships, which take place Feb. 26-27 at East Tennessee State.