Kean University

A star for the Kean football team from 1974 through 1977, Joseph Knoth was the first great defensive back to wear the uniform of the Squires (now Cougars).

A member of the outstanding 1974 team that posted a strong 8-2 mark, his personal excellence really began to materialize the following season, when he set a school record and led the New Jersey State College Athletic Conference (NJSCAC) in interceptions with six, and was third on the Squires with 53 tackles. He was named first team All-NJSCAC following the season.

After a second-team nod in 1976, he returned to his first team All-NJSCAC form with four interceptions as a senior in 1977. After his three-pick performance against FDU-Madison, he was voted the New Jersey Football Writers' Association Player of the Week.

Knoth also holds the distinction of becoming the first player in the history of the Kean football program to sign a professional contract when he inked a deal with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League.

Knoth earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in recreation administration from Kean in 1982.