WILLIAMSTOWN - Beginning on the groundfloor isn't something Lane Knost was accustomed to as a member of the Williamstown High School football program.
The Yellowjackets had an established winning tradition and that is something the senior hopes to instill amongst his teammates next season at Kentucky Christian University.
Knost recently declared his intention to attend the school located in Grayson, Ky. The Knights, who began competing at the varsity level in 2008, are coming off an 0-11 season.
"They have a new coaching staff and I liked what they had to say," Knost said. "Hopefully, our class can be the one that starts the tradition of winning some games."
Knost was recruited by first-year coach Mike Furrey at the same position - wide receiver - in which Furrey played seven years in the National Football League. As a member of the Detroit Lions in 2006, Furrey led the NFC with 98 receptions.
"Coach Furrey will be my positions coach, so that will be a great experience," Knost said. "Obviously, he knows what he is talking about and I will be getting a lot of help from him.
"He made some jokes telling me I better go up one-handed and grab some catches. It's cool to get recruited by a former NFL player."
Knost, who is the son of Brian and Angie Knost, carries a 3.18 grade-point average. He will receive a partial academic and athletic scholarship to play for the NAIA program. During his junior year at Williamstown, Lane Knost set school records for receptions and touchdown catches.
At the beginning of his senior year, Knost switched to the club's starting quarterback and finished the year completing 99-of-160 passes for 1,307 yards and 16 touchdowns as the Yellowjackets finished with their second consecutive 9-3 season. Making the switch back to receiver should be like riding a bike for the 6-foot-4, 191-pounder.
"The coaches at KCU actually asked me what I would rather do," admitted Knost, who also doubled at defensive back. "I thought about it for a while and felt receiver would be the best position for me.
"I just need to run good routes and the quarterback will get me the ball - that's what coach Furrey told me. As long as you have good hands, the quarterback will find a way to get you the ball."
Knost also contemplated offers from Glenville State College and Oberlin College (Ohio).
Even though his athletic career also involved basketball and baseball, he was intent on pursuing a career at the next level in football.
"Football has always been my No. 1 sport - it's always been a dream to play college football," Knost said. "I watch those guys on TV and think I could do that. I'm truly blessed to have that opportunity."
