SENIOR SEND OFF: JACK KNUST

Jack Knust
 
Sport(s): Soccer, Football, Basketball and Track
 
Plans after high school: I am going to Truman State University to study business and play soccer.
 
Highlights of your career as a student athlete: Making it to the State Quarter Final in 2 sports in the same season. (Soccer and Football)
 
What was the biggest lesson you learned as a student athlete?
Not to take things for granted. As a freshmen I came into a team with 4 all state players and we made it to the final four. After that year, I assumed that I would have at least one more shot at the final four. My sophomore and junior year we couldn't win districts. Finally, my senior year we were one goal away from the final four but then lost with 2 minutes left in overtime. Now I am sitting at home missing all the last senior memories because of this coronavirus pandemic.
 
Thank You:
I want to thank my coaches that I've had at Grain Valley High School. The coaches have been very influential people in my life. First, I want to thank Coach Lewis and Garrison for teaching me how to make the most out of every situation in life. They became some great friends to me while they coached me throughout the soccer season. They helped me realize hard work and having fun can go hand in hand. They made every second of the season fun and I loved playing for them. Next, I want to thank Coach Allie. He helped me build confidence, not only as a kicker, but as a person and leader. Even though I only played basketball for one year, I'd like to thank Coach Leiker, Rowland and Herbert who taught me how to play hard for a team. They also showed me how to better play with heart and passion. I'd like to thank Coach Winkler and Small for the 3 weeks I ran track. They taught me how to push my teammates in practice, so that we all develop as a team. I hate that my first and last track season ended so early. I was really looking forward to it. Lastly, I would like to thank Coach Nichol for everything he has done for me and my high school soccer career. He has made the biggest impact on me throughout my high school career. My freshmen year was truly an experience I will never forget. I played for one of the best teams in the state as a freshmen and he had the faith in me to play me in all the tough games we had. He saw something special in me as a freshmen. After that year he was hard on me and pushed me to be the best leader and player I could be which helped lead our team to the state quarter finals my senior year when many never thought it would be possible. All of these coaches, taught me lessons I will use beyond sports and high school and for that I am grateful.