“The race does not always go to the swift, for time and chance happen to all.”

For the past 20 years, theology teacher Coach Scott Holzknecht has been a key part of Trinity’s cross country and track and field programs, including six years as head cross country coach and seven years as head track coach. Over two decades, he’s not only been a good coach—he’s been a great one, achieving more than many could have imagined when he first took on the role.

Now, Coach Holzknecht is officially retiring from coaching the Cross Country and Track & Field Rocks. When asked about what lies ahead, he shared, “It’s a year-round endeavor, and it’d be nice to spend time with my son.” His young son is just beginning to play sports, and Coach expressed a strong desire to be present for those moments. He also spoke about wanting to spend more time with his family—a priority that helped shape his decision to step away.

Reflecting on how coaching has shaped him, Coach Holzknecht said, “Some things come easy to people, but not others, so trying to work with both teaches you things about life.” Over the years, he led teams that may not have had the most natural talent, but they achieved state championships through determination and belief. That underdog mentality became central to his coaching philosophy—and to his personal growth. He also shared that coaching played a significant role in his spiritual development.

Of course, there were also seasons where highly favored teams fell short. But those moments, too, reinforced one of his favorite sayings: “The race does not always go to the swift, for time and chance happen to all” (Ecclesiastes 9:11). It’s a quote that captures the spirit he instilled in his athletes—the idea that everyone has a shot, and what matters most is how you rise to the occasion.

When asked about the people who helped him the most, Coach was quick to give credit. “Without my awesome coaching staff, I would have never been able to accomplish half of what the Trinity program has,” he said. His success, he emphasized, was never a solo effort. The coaches who worked alongside him—and the athletes who gave their all—played a vital role in building the legacy he leaves behind.

Through it all, Coach Holzknecht fostered a culture of motivation, resilience, and belief. That culture helped define one of the most successful coaching careers in recent Trinity athletic history. As he steps away from the track, his impact will remain—etched in the hearts of the athletes he coached and in the story of a program that learned how to run not just fast, but with purpose.