University of Nebraska - Kearney Athletics

Recognition: Athlete/Coach

Merlin ‘Beanie’ Lawrence was one of the outstanding pole vaulters for coach Charlie Foster in the 1960s. As a junior in 1961, Lawrence tied for first in the NAIA national championship meet in his specialty. He was second as a senior and placed one other year. When the Alliance High School product vaulted 14 feet, he became the first small college athlete to reach that height. In addition to his national honors, Lawrence was Nebraska College Conference champion three times. Lawrence has been a successful high school coach at Ainsworth and Omaha Burke. His boys and girls track teams have won numerous conference and state championships.