Wagner College Athletics

John A. Knudson, known affectionately as "Johnny K" to his legions of friends and colleagues and the driving force behind the formation of the Wagner Athletics Hall of Fame, passed away in January, 2014 at the age of 86.
 
Associated with the Wagner athletic program since becoming head athletic trainer in 1957, he went on to befriend countless Wagner athletes, supporters and administrators over the ensuing 56 years, which included 32 years of professional work where he served as a head coach, professor in the physical education department, and an assistant athletic director.

Johnny K dedicated his entire professional life to Wagner College, especially through its athletic programs, prior to his retirement in 1989. In the years since his retirement, he remained extremely active and involved with Seahawk athletics, all the while dispensing his unique brand of good cheer while exuding class in passionately supporting the College every step of the way.

He served as chairman of the Hall of Fame Committee for more than 20 years and held the title of Chairman Emeritus the past three years. A 1996 inductee into the Wagner Hall of Fame, through the years he played an influential role in countless other Wagner initiatives, serving as a member of the Sal Alberti Golf Classic and as a member of all of Wagner's athletic support clubs.

In the many roles that he held on Grymes Hill, Johnny K became a confidant, advisor, and lifelong friend to countless Wagner students and alumni, with immeasurable impact over his 50-plus years of committed service to the College. He also traveled the world as athletic trainer for the NIT All-Star teams. Knudson's teaching and service extended beyond Wagner.