Winona, Minn. - Terry Knothe was a member of the Men's Basketball and Men's golf programs during his time at Winona State University. The Richland Center, WI native graduated in 1979 with a bachelor's degree in Physical Science. After graduating, Knothe took his first teaching job in Saint Charles, MN. After 42 years teaching at Saint Charles High School, he retired in 2021. During his tenure at Saint Charles, Knothe coached Boys Basketball, Boys Golf, and Girls Golf. He finished his decorated basketball coaching career as the All-Time Wins Leader at Saint Charles High School. He also won 16 conference titles between the golf programs.
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What was your favorite sports memory during your time at WSU?
I would say being part of a team, and having an instant connection with teammates.
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What would you say is your greatest athletics and/or academic accomplishment during your time at WSU?
Mine was coming to the understanding that eventually athletics wasn't going to provide a job for me in the workforce. Even though it is a tremendous opportunity to be a part of college athletics, learning to really focus on the academic life and prepare for life after athletics and school is most important.
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How has your WSU athletics experience been influential throughout your life?
I coached high school athletics for 42 years and continue to coach athletes in retirement. My high school coaches and junior college coaches were all Winona State alumni. As mentors, they showed me valuable lessons that I used continually throughout my teaching and coaching career.
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Please share any recent professional or personal accomplishments.
Minnesota Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame (Inducted in 2017), Saint Charles High School Hall of Fame, Richland Center High School Hall of Fame
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What is your current occupation?
I am in my third year of retirement after 42 years of teaching and coaching.
What advice would you give to current WSU student-athletes?
Winona state provided a terrific education, as well as local connections that helped set me up for success in the workforce.
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If any current Warrior student-athletes are interested in connecting with Terry Knothe, please reach out to your SAS team advisor to get his contact information.
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