University of Wisconsin La Crosse Athletics

Athlete: 1947-1951

    One of the greatest all-around linemen in the school's history, John Knispel was the captain of  La Crosse's 1951 Cigar Bowl championship team. He was a three-year starter at right tackle and handled all punting and extra-point kicking.

    A native of Watertown, Knispel has taught and coached baseball and football in the Menominee (Mich.) Area School District. He officiated high school and college sports in Wisconsin and Michigan for over 20 years.