Johnny Knolla (1978) - Creighton Athletics Hall of Fame

Johnny Knolla

Induction:
1978
Class:
1946

Johnny Knolla played football at Creighton from 1938 to 40. In 1940, Knolla led the nation in rush-pass yards with 1,420. His bronzed shoes in the Creighton Athletic Department carry the notation of that record. Captain of the 1940 Creighton team and captain of the All-Missouri Valley team, Johnny was chosen on the Associated Press and United Press All-American team of 1940. After completing his collegiate career, he played professional football with the Philadelphia Eagles and the Chicago Cardinals. He then spent 25 years in high school coaching and teaching. Johnny and his wife, Marguerite Hyland, were parents to 12 children, eight sons and four daughters.