Jim Krupke was a three-year member of the Winona State Football team. Krupke graduated in 1984 with a bachelor's degree in Physical Education, along with a minor in Coaching. During his time at Winona State, Krupke helped lead the football team to a conference championship in 1983. That same year, he was named an NAIA All Mid-American, and made NIC All-Conference. In 2016, Krupke was the recipient of the Will Smith Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by Next College Student Athlete (NCSA). He also established the Illinois Warrior Football Scholarship, which is presented annually to a member of the Winona State Football team that is from Illinois. Krupke was inducted into the Winona State Hall of Fame in 2017.
What was your favorite sports memory during your time at WSU?
Football my entire senior season (1983). We were conference champions.
What would you say is your greatest athletics and/or academic accomplishment during your time at WSU?
Being voted captain of the team and making Mid-American all conference.
How has your WSU athletics experience been influential throughout your life?
Being on a college football team taught me leadership skills and discipline. It helped me develop a strong work ethic!
Please share any recent professional or personal accomplishments.
I coached many championship teams at Downers Grove South High School (IL). I also coached a state champion in wrestling. I am proud of making a transition away from teaching/coaching and establishing a new career in sales.
What is your current occupation, and what are your career goals?
I am retired, but i work 3 different jobs to keep busy!
What advice would you give to current WSU student-athletes?
Set goals!!! Short-term, mid-term and long-term goals. If it is not written down, it's not a goal. Constantly challenge yourself and find out how far you can go - anyone can settle.
If any current Warrior student-athletes are interested in connecting with Jim Krupke, please reach out to your SAS team advisor to get his contact information.
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