FLCC Names Daniel Knopp as Head Coach of Track and Field

CANANDAIGUA, N.Y. - Finger Lakes Community College has announced Daniel Knopp as the new head coach of the Lakers' track and field program. Knopp steps into the role after serving as an assistant coach last season under previous head coach James Bathgate.

"I had the great opportunity to work with current athletes last year as an assistant working under Coach Bathgate, and I'm thrilled to be able to continue that journey as head coach," Knopp said. "I'm also excited for Coach Bathgate and wish him the best with his new job."

Knopp brings more than two decades of running experience and nearly a decade of youth coaching and mentoring to the Lakers program. A graduate of East Rochester High School and the University at Buffalo, Knopp was a founding member and vice president of UB's student running club in 2007. He has since competed in over 17 marathons, several ultramarathons, and multiple triathlons, including a Half Ironman, while taking part in adventure-based endurance challenges around the world. His athletic pursuits include a 200-mile charity run across Haiti, a Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim double crossing of the Grand Canyon, and a through-hike of the Alta Via 1 in the Italian Dolomites.

"My approach is oriented toward increasing skill and awareness," Knopp explained. "This involves focusing on technique and encouraging athletes to set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound (SMART) goals."

Knopp's coaching philosophy extends beyond competition, emphasizing academic success and community-building.

"I'd like to focus on building a team of great people, not just athletes," he said. "A goal I'd like to set for the team is to work toward academic success as much as athletic success."

Drawing from his own athletic journey, Knopp aims to help each student-athlete find meaning in the sport regardless of ability or experience.

"My goal as a coach is to support athletes on their journey in sport so that it's as rich and meaningful as possible," he said. "For some athletes, that may include championships; for others, simply being part of a team may become one of the most memorable times in their lives. I want every athlete to have an elite experience, regardless of their background or level."

A USATF Level 1 Certified Coach and NASM Certified Personal Trainer (in progress), Knopp also holds Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED and Wilderness First Aid certifications. He resides in Rochester and remains an active advocate for the Greater Rochester running community.

"I have a strong connection to the region and actively try to support and promote it," Knopp said. "We have an amazing area to live in and a lot of incredible resources, including FLCC."

The Lakers track and field program will return to competition in Spring 2026 under Knopp's leadership.