Monday, June 18, 2018
Each year, Milwaukee Recreation presents the 'Experience Life' award to an individual who has dedicated countless hours to enriching the lives of others in the Milwaukee community through recreation. This year, we are honored to recognize Rick Knack, who has played a vital role over the last 38 years.
During his career, Knack, also known as “Rick from Rec,” has consistently demonstrated that he is a 'jack of all recreation trades.'
Through the years, he has had a hand in almost all of Milwaukee Recreation's program areas and is known for his incredible work ethic and versatility. Knack consistently demonstrates a passion for bringing recreation programs to the Milwaukee community, with a special connection to youth sports. It’s not uncommon for Knack to mentor a new youth sports coach, run a few practices, work with a principal to get a program up and running, or coach a team or two.
Here are some of his accomplishments:
- 1980-81: Program Director and Supervising Instructor for the High Impact Program (HIP) at locations all over the city
- 1982: Took on role of Summer Playleader at Lowell Playfield. Knack spearheaded a much-needed sports program for MPS schools. He also designed the first elementary After-School Rec Program (ASRP) Basketball league. This four-team league was the model for what is now the department’s Citywide Youth Sports Program.
- 1984: Expanded ASRP to three locations, and added volleyball and softball. Knack was appointed the first Resource Supervisor for the Summer Playground Program.
- 1985: Launched the 'Latch Key' daily after school Program at Manitoba. This was model for what has now become the department’s Before and After-School Program, Joined the Adults Sports Program as a Building Director and Field Attendant
- 1989-90: Soccer and six middle school sports added to ASRP
- 1996: Only full-time non-salaried employee asked to complete training in both Total Quality Management and Changing Roles of Leadership
- Career Positions with Milwaukee Recreation: Program, League, Building Director, Sports Coordinator, Field Attendant, Playleader, Coach, Official, Scorer, Camp Staff, Class Instructor
- Implemented Events: Pepsi Hot-Shot, Coca-Cola 3-on-3, NFL Punt, Pass, and Kick, MLB Pitch, Hit, and Run.
Congratulations to Rick Knack on an impressive 38-year-career of encouraging Milwaukee residents to “experience life” through recreation!