Chuck Karnop (2003) - Hall of Fame - Montana State University Athletics

Chuck Karnop

Induction:
2003
Class:
2002

Chuck Karnop-Head Athletic Trainer, 1968-2002 Years at MSU: Head Athletic Trainer, 1968-2002 Honors: National Athletic Trainers Association Meritorious Service Award Hometown: Harlowton, Montana Presenter: Dean Alexander “In my 40 years in athletics, I’ve never met anyone with more integrity than Chuck Karnop.” –Former MSU Women’s Athletic Director Ginny Hunt In September of 1958, Chuck Karnop “tagged along” with his good friend Jess Langston on a trip to Bozeman to begin fall quarter classes at Montana State. Forty five years later, Karnop is being inducted into the Wendy’s of Montana MSU Athletics Hall of Fame after a career that established him as much a part of the Bobcat landscape as the Fieldhouse and the “M” on Mt. Baldy. Karnop’s 34 years as the Bobcats’ head athletic trainer is believed to be the longest continual service time by an employee in the department’s history. Karnop saw the ‘Cats win two national championships and nine Big Sky titles in football, as well as five Big Sky basketball championships and several titles in rodeo and track and field. He helped redefine the role of athletic training at MSU serving all student-athletes. He is renowned for his willingness to mentor student-trainers and student-athletes. “In his role, he touched ass many lives as anyone at that University,” said former Bobcat football player and assistant coach Joe Tiller. In addition, he was such a great mentor to a lot of outstanding student trainers that came up through the ranks. Chuck is a truly great ambassador for Montana State University.” Montana State honored Karnop in 1998 for his service, and the National Athletic Trainers Association followed.