Baldwin ? Baker University named Zach Kindler coach of its of its cross country and track and field teams, the university announced Thursday.

Kindler, a former all-American track athlete at Fort Hays State University, has coached track and cross country at Kansas Wesleyan in Salina since 2004. He replaces Rob Mallinder, who plans to coach in his native New Zealand or Australia.

“Zach Kindler brings a passion to our program,” Baker athletic director Dan Harris said. “His strong desire to serve Baker and his ability to bring accomplished physical-education teaching credentials to the department were all factors in his selection as the newest member of the Baker University family.”

At Fort Hays State, Kindler was a two-time academic all-American and the NCAA national javelin champion in 2001. He was named KCAC women’s cross country coach of the year in 2004 and 2006, when he guided Kansas Wesleyan to conference championships.