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Many times, unless you're from or live near a specific area, there are Athletic Trainers you have never heard about. So we wanted to share some details on a legend who has gone into the Hall of Fame in his state!
Chuck Karnop, a cornerstone of Montana State University's athletic community, was recently inducted into the Montana Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his profound influence and dedication as an Athletic Trainer for the Bobcats.
Starting his journey in 1958 as a late registrant at Montana State College, Karnop's initial encounter with the campus was based on pure luck, influenced by a friend’s suggestion, as he only decided to go there a few days before school started.
“And after I was here for about three weeks, you couldn't have gotten me out of here in any way."
His commitment to the institution, which transitioned to Montana State University in 1965, spanned a remarkable career from 1968 to 2001.
During his tenure, Karnop played a pivotal role in the football team's success, witnessing two national titles and nine Big Sky Conference titles.
His induction ceremony, held on June 22 in Billings, saw him honored alongside prominent figures such as Mark McGrath, Matt Clark, Marc Mariani, Chase Reynolds, and Brock Osweiler.
Reflecting on the honor, Karnop expressed his heartfelt gratitude:
“It's a tremendous honor and I just have a deep level of gratitude for that. It's one of those things I definitely never expected.”
Karnop’s roots in sports trace back to his youth in Harlowton, where he excelled in various sports including baseball and even dabbled in rodeo. His academic and professional path led him back to MSU for graduate school in 1965, where an opportunity to extend his studies for a job with the football team solidified his future as an Athletic Trainer.
Jim Sweeney, the then-head coach, recognized Karnop’s potential and brought him back to Bozeman to begin what would be a storied career. Karnop's influence extended beyond the field, engaging deeply with the athletes and fostering an environment focused on holistic well-being.
Karnop fondly remembers the unity and determination of the championship teams he served.
“All championship teams, regardless of sport, you find this—they kind of come together and the goal becomes just so much more important than the aspirations of any single guy."
Retiring in 2001 on his own terms, Karnop has continued to cherish the bonds he formed at MSU. His post-retirement years in Bozeman have been enriched by his family and ongoing connections to the university, including his 2003 induction into the MSU Athletics Hall of Fame.
Chuck Karnop’s legacy at Montana State is a blend of professional excellence and personal commitment, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many and the history of Montana football.
Read his full story here!
