This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Sports

North Canton Resident Gordon 'Gordie' Knisely Leaves a Lasting Impression

Knisely's accomplishments, from teaching to coaching, could fill a book

If the truth be known, I had a difficult time boiling down to story size all the information I gathered on former Hoover High School coach and teacher Gordon "Gordie" Knisely last week.

I am certain a book could be written.

Those I have talked to since about Knisely praise his teaching as much as his coaching. I guess in reality those two things should go together anyway. Knisely talks as proudly about developing the earth science curriculum at Hoover High School as he does keeping track of current and former Hoover athletes.

Find out what's happening in North Cantonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Knisely was married for 58 years to Eileen, who also was a teacher. And guess what? They raised two daughters who became teachers, too. Gordie had perfect attendance his entire teaching career. He got to school early each day to make sure he talked to students.

In the story, I mentioned his former player and future NBA star Dick Snyder, who I had the chance to speak with after the story was published.

Find out what's happening in North Cantonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"Gordie was a great guy and I enjoyed my time with him immensely," Snyder said from Arizona. "He was an exceptional teacher and coach."

Because Knisely does not use a computer, I followed through on my promise to deliver to him a copy of the story. He made such an impression on me that I felt compelled to take along my 15-year-old son Will to meet him. My only regret is Will never got the chance to have Knisely as a teacher or coach.

Knisely told me in parting that he would be anxious to return from visiting his daughter in Virginia. He has Hoover athletes and coaches to look after and wants to give my son a catching lesson or two.

After all, Knisely said, "it's what keeps me young and active."

Extra points:

  • Hoover wrestling recently concluded the 51st Annual North Canton Holiday Wrestling tournament. That makes it the longest-running holiday tournament in Ohio wrestling history.
  • Congratulations to Hoover senior Ryan Teis, who took first place at the prestigious Top Gun Tournament over the weekend in Alliance.
  • Knights of Columbus will sponsor their annual Free Throw Championship from 9 a.m. to noon Jan. 29 at the St. Paul's School Gym. This contest is open to boys and girls ages 10 to 14. Contact John Herold at 330-494-6858 for entry form and registration.
We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from North Canton