The women's soccer team chose to honor Henry Wooten as part of their Staff Appreciation Day at their game this afternoon against Lakeland University at 4:30 p.m.

"Henry has been a shining example of what it means to feel pride in your community," declared junior women's soccer player Aleene Ramirez. "Not only has he shown up for games, but through every conversation in the cafe or on the sideline, he has supported us. So thank you Henry, because even if we only had one fan, we know it would be you!"

Henry has worked as a dishwasher, checker, and food service worker in the cafeteria at Knox for 32 years, 2 months, and three days. He is one of the Prairie Fire athletic teams' number one fans and attends as many events as he is able to. Henry always has a word of encouragement for our student-athletes whether it is on the field or in the cafeteria.

"From the roses to the smiles to celebrating titles with us," said fifth-year senior women's soccer player Carina Escobar. "Thank you for all your support throughout the years! We love you and couldn't do it without you Henry!!"

Wooten won the David Robinson Fan of the Year Award in 2015, awarded by the Athletic Department to the person or persons deemed to have given Knox teams the most sincere and comprehensive support during any given year.

Senior women's soccer player Kasey Snyder added, "I would say that I appreciate the constant enthusiasm he shows towards our team and the positive energy he brings to every game we have." 

Wooten originally retired in 2019, but he couldn't stay away and is still a huge presence in the lives of Knox students and student-athletes. Today is also his birthday.

Sophomore women's soccer player Susie Hernandez remarked, "Although I don't know Henry very well, he has always made me and the people I know feel comfortable in the caf. He has always cheered us on keeping our energies high for game days."

Come out to Jorge Prats field this afternoon as we honor Henry Wooten before the game.