Knudsen Becoming Accustomed to Cross Country Coaching Role

Elgin, Ill. Since being hired in April, Judson University's Distance Coach and Recruiting Coordinator Cam Knudsen has been busy recruiting athletes, scheduling events, and training runners. Even though this is his first time having the authority to organize a training regimen, Knudsen feels that his experience in the sport has built him the confidence to lead in this position.

"I've had a good background of running knowledge both from my family and previous coaches I've trained under," said Knudsen. "I am implementing systems that I've had before in my career, and they are working thus far."

Knudsen is familiar with the CCAC and the NAIA as he spent the last seven years with the University of St. Francis in Joliet. He was a runner for five years and served as an assistant for the last two years.

One of the prominent roles that Knudsen holds at Judson is the recruiting process. This summer, COVID-19 put a pause on most aspects of life. However, thanks to modern technology, recruiting was rather seamless for Knudsen.

"A lot of kids prefer to be recruited by text messaging or calling. Recruiting is not usually going to people's houses anymore," said Knudsen. "A lot of times I'll text them before going to a meet anyways. I've been able to get out to a few meets as many high schools have allowed spectators at events. After the first couple of weeks on the job, I was able to solidify my recruiting system."

Cross Country is the only CCAC-sponsored sport occurring this fall, so Knudsen's coaching and training regiments have not been altered considerably. But when an epidemic is present, certainly a few precautions have to be considered.

"The screening before running is one change. Another is having a mask on unless you are racing," said Knudsen. "In training, we are being more mindful in lifting and drills ensuring we have plenty of room. It is great that our sport is outside and is naturally socially distant."

Maintaining a schedule of these numerous duties requires quite the routine. This routine begins very early in the morning for Knudsen.

"So far I have been waking up about 5:30 since we have 6:00 am practice most days," he said. "Afterwards, I go back to my place and get ready for the day. Then I come back to the office and go through emails. Then we usually have a second practice around 11, and then I am in the office recruiting, scheduling a meet, or setting up training."

There's never a dull day in Cam Knudsen's life, and certainly, he has been a great asset to the Judson University Athletic Staff.

If you are interested in being recruited by Cam or getting in touch with him, feel free to do so at cameron.knudsen@judsonu.edu.