Since 1990*, the Illinois Freshman of the Year Award has been given annually to the best performing male and female student-athlete in his or her first year of competition in college athletics.
* From 1990-2017 the award was called the Newcomer of the Year Award and allowed for transfers to win. Starting in 2018 it became Freshman of the Year making it open only to those in their first year of competition in college
FIGHTING ILLINI ATHLETICS AWARDS
» Dike Eddleman Athlete of the Year
» Big Ten Medal of Honor
» Freshman of the Year
» Newcomer of the Year
» Big Ten Jackie Robinson Award
» Big Ten Outstanding Sportsmanship Award
» Spirit Award
