This episode of Galesburg In Focus features one of those special and rare persons who is recognizable by one name. If you say Harley around Galesburg, people instantly know you are talking about arguably the most famous and influential man ever associated with Knox College.
Harley Knosher came to Knox College its basketball coach in 1960, and retired 40 years later, leaving a lasting and enduring impact on college, and more importantly, the thousands of individuals he came across.
But Harley’s 40-year tenure as a coach, athletic director, educator, counselor, mentor and even a cheerleader didn’t end when he retired in 2000. He’s continued to be involved with Knox in a variety of ways, and to this day, Harley remains a vital part of the Knox community.
Ask former players to describe Harley, and you will hear LOTS of entertaining stories, but a common theme emerges every time: “He changed my life forever.”
Harley turns 90 years old in February 2024, and dozens turned out to help him celebrate during Basketball Homecoming on Jan. 20, 2024, at Knox.
Harley Knosher join WGIL’s Jay Redfern to talk about a variety of topics, including how he ended up at Knox, the famed Knox-Monmouth rivalry, what he would have been if he wasn’t a coach, and more.