Knud Petersen, a local sports enthusiast and former potato farmer, has long been a pillar of support for the University of Lethbridge and Pronghorn Athletics.
His generosity, both in the stands and behind the scenes, has made a lasting impact on the lives of student-athletes. In a continuing demonstration of his commitment, Petersen has made a generous endowment donation to establish the “Knud Petersen Family Men’s Soccer Award” for the men’s soccer program. While many know him for his cheers from the sidelines, it is his deep and ongoing dedication to the success of student-athletes that truly defines his legacy.
This latest donation, paired with matching funds from the University, will double its impact, helping future Pronghorns achieve their academic and athletic goals. Petersen’s gift is a testament to the power of community involvement, showing how one individual’s belief in student-athletes can drive success both on and off the field.
Petersen’s longstanding relationship with ULethbridge goes beyond just financial contributions. His earlier endowed donations to women’s soccer and women’s rugby have already raised nearly $65,000 in scholarships, helping countless athletes pursue their dreams. For Petersen, these gifts are more than financial—they’re an investment in the future of tomorrow’s leaders and community pillars.
Petersen played a key role in establishing, funding and coaching the first-ever women’s soccer program at Lethbridge College in 1994. The team went on to achieve remarkable success, winning both the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference provincial championship and the CCAA national title in its undefeated inaugural season.
In recognition of his outstanding dedication, Petersen was honoured with the Pronghorn Athletics Gary Bowie Leadership Award in 2003. More recently, in 2023, he was inducted into the Pronghorn Hall of Fame as a builder, a testament to his enduring impact on Pronghorn Athletics.
Petersen’s legacy is not only about his contributions, but also about inspiring others within Lethbridge’s vibrant community to invest in their future leaders—student-athletes, who will go on to excel both on and off the field.
