Tom Knudson leading runners

New Trine track and field
coach giving back

ANGOLA, Ind. – Trine University’s new track and field coach sees his position as a way to give back to the sport that has been so good to him.

Fort Wayne native Thomas Knudson will take the helm of Trine’s track and field program beginning this year, after successfully coaching runners at the high-school level for 27 years. He served as the head coach at both North Side High School and Northrop High School, both in Fort Wayne.

“Watching my athletes move on to the next level and maturing into great young men and women is the highlight of my coaching career,” Knudson said. “I have had great coaches in my Track career and have learned so much. Coaching is a chance to give back to the sport that has been good to me and allowed me to meet great people and have great opportunities.”

During his 12 seasons at Northrop, he led the Bruins to Indiana Team State Championships seven times and two state runner-up titles. He also helped multiple athletes attain individual state titles and state records. Many of the Northrop athletes went on to compete in NCAA Division I, II and III track and field programs.

“Sharing all of my knowledge and experiences with my athletes and coaches has been one of my main goals over the last several years,” Knudson said. “I look forward to the opportunity here at Trine University and an opportunity to coach at the collegiate level.”

Knudson earned his bachelor’s degree from Ball State University, where he ran on the men’s cross country team. He earned his master’s degree from Indiana University. In 1977, he was a participant in the U.S. Marathon National Championships in St. Louis, Mo.

He was named the National Track and Field Coach of the Year in 2002 and the Indiana Association of Track and Cross Country Coach’s Coach of the Year from 2000-2005 and in 2011. He was named the Indiana Coaches of Girls Sports Association’s Coach of the Year from 2000-2005 and in 2012. He was inducted into the Indiana Track and Field Hall of Fame in 2010.

“We have been so impressed with Coach Knudson’s leadership and success, and we know he will continue to make great strides at Trine,” said Trine athletic director Matt Land. “He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, personally and professionally.”

To share your news, contact Trine University communication specialist Lindsay Winslow Brown at winslowbrownl@trine.edu.