Over the course of former Kansas State football head coach Bill Snyder’s 27-year career, he created a culture that has affected students and fans of the school.
A few current K-State students have been impacted by Snyder during their time as a Wildcat, while some felt that impact even before coming to Manhattan.
John Hickson, sophomore in public relations, grew up bleeding purple.
“I can’t remember missing a home K-State football game,” Hickson said.
Hickson said Snyder personally affected him during his time as head coach.
“Bill Snyder means a lot to me because he has created something that I will love forever,” Hickson said. “Because of him I have the opportunity to go to Manhattan, Kansas every Saturday in the fall and watch what I love.”
Snyder’s effect has reached farther than just those who grew up watching K-State football.
Jake Hoover, sophomore in kinesiology, did not grow up a die-hard K-State football fan, but he still took notice of Snyder’s success.
“Growing up I was never a specific fan of either Kansas or Kansas State,” Hoover said. “But the success of Kansas State’s football program always drew me in.”
When asked about the characteristic that he most admires about Coach Snyder, Hoover said “he’s down to earth despite his celebrity presence here in Manhattan.”
Snyder’s reach still does not stop there. Carter Rands, sophomore in marketing, was born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa. Rands recalled his first memory of Snyder in 2012 when K-State was one win away from an opportunity to play in the BCS National Championship game.
Rands also had the opportunity to work for Snyder’s team as an equipment manager. He said his time working for Snyder was a great experience and something he will cherish forever.
Rands said he most admires Coach Snyder’s work ethic and all the effort he put into his job, he said.
Bill Snyder has affected a numerous amount of students here at K-State. His leadership and knowledge will be revered in Manhattan for years to come, and he will leave behind an impact that will never be forgotten.
