Knox College Athletics

Steve Walton was a four-year letter winner, and three-year starter for the football team and a four-year letter winner for the track and field team. He had a great career as an offensive and defensive lineman for the football team and a thrower for the track and field team. The football teams during his three-year stint as a starter won 17 total games, the best three-year stretch in Knox history.

Standing at 6’3” and 205 pounds, Walton was a staple on the offensive and defensive line from 1971 to 1973. His efforts helped lead the team to a 17-9-1 record in his three-year career. At that time, freshmen were not allowed to play on the varsity team. However from his sophomore season on, Walton was key part of the success of the Knox football team.

Topper Steinman ‘70 stated, “The thing that impressed me most about Steve was the quiet, determined, lead-by-example model that he set for others on his teams to follow. And they did!”

In 1972, Walton made the switch from offensive tackle to defensive tackle and was nominated for the All-Midwest Conference team as a junior. He did not make the team that year; however, he was named to the second team the following year based in large part on his contributions to a defense that held opponents to a combined 121 points. Known for his speed at the position, he was excellent against the run and as a pass rusher.

Harley Knosher said, “Not only was Steve an outstanding two-sport performer, but he was also the ideal teammate. His commitment to both the football and track and field teams was complete and he was totally supportive of the other players and his coaches. He was the classic example of putting the team first in his thoughts and actions.”

His strength and athleticism translated well to a fine career in the shot put ring as well. His heave of 45’7”, which won the 1973 Dillard College Invitational in New Orleans, stands tied for the 10^th best throw in school history. His leadership as a captain helped the team to a fifth place finish at the Midwest Conference Championships.

After graduating from Knox, Walton went on to teach and coach for 35 years at Sterling High School in Sterling, Illinois. He has stayed involved in Knox as a member of the Presidents Circle and the K Club, as well as a vocal advocate. Knox-Lombard Hall of Fame football player Kevin Megli played for Coach Walton at Sterling.

Megli is one of four brothers who were all coached by Walton in High School. “I had not even heard of the school when I began my college search,” said Megli. “Coach gently nudged me that direction, telling me how successful I could be (at Knox).”