A Football Program Matures and a Quarterback Emerges, with Pat Collins and Connor Knapp

The 29/1

Join us as we sit down with Head Coach Pat Collins and starting quarterback Connor Knapp in this episode of The 29/1. Learn how both player and coach have embraced change for the good of each other and the team, and how playing in the electrifying atmosphere of West Ottawa Stadium can have some unique advantages, but also present some surprising challenges.
Coach Collins emphasizes the importance of experiences that shape players both on and off the field. Connor shares his take on the evolution of leadership within the team. Hear about the camaraderie between high school football players, built by shared experiences like playing NCAA video games on couches in the locker room or fixing up an old boat.
We touch on Connor’s development as a quarterback and how the remarkable switch from receiver to quarterback came about. Explore the hopes for the upcoming season and how the program feels the community’s unwavering support as they push to improve.
This episode was recorded on July 31, 2024.

Podcasts drop weekly at 6 AM every Monday morning just in time for that morning commute or workout. Please like, follow, subscribe, or leave a review. Even share with someone who might like to listen. Thanks for taking the time to get to know each other a little bit better. The people who make West Ottawa Athletics what it is. Go WO!

Chapter

1. Condor-Man (00:00:00)

2. West Ottawa Becoming a Football School (00:05:48)

3. Focusing on Football, A Boat & Locker Room Couches (00:15:30)

4. From Receiver to Quarterback (00:24:45)

5. Night One West Ottawa Stadium & Progression Through Adversity (00:32:10)

6. A Second Time Around With Grand Ledge (00:40:28)

7. Looking Up At The Lights (00:45:15)

8. Let’s Travel to Grand Ledge Panther Fans! (00:48:52)