University of Minnesota Athletics
Marty Knight - M Club Hall of Fame
Marty KnightClass of 2005
Swimming
1966-69
A multi-talented swimmer who was an All-American for three consecutive years, Marty Knight burst on to the Minnesota scene in 1966 and broke the freshman record in the 200-yard backstroke. In 1967 he was the Big Ten Champion in the individual medley, breaking the conference record at 1:58.60. An exceptional accomplishment came in 1969 when he became the Big Ten Champion in the 200-yard freestyle with a time of 1:42.19, which was the fastest time in the nation heading into the NCAA Championships. His time held as the fourth fastest time after three other swimmers, including Mark Spitz, swam faster.
Knight was a model student-athlete earning as much praise, recognition and honors for his work in the classroom as for his talent in the pool. He was a Williams Scholar Athlete throughout his career. In 1969 the faculty voted him the Outstanding Physical Education Student of the Year. That same year he received the American Athlete in Action Award based on academic, athletic, and ethical leadership.
After his days at the U of M, Knight earned a PhD in physical education and went on to teach and coach. He coached swimming at Hamline University for many years, earning coach of the year honors during his tenure.