Michigan State field hockey coach Helen Knull has resigned after 15 seasons leading the program, the longest tenure in program history. Her departure closes a chapter defined not only by competitive success but also by her commitment to developing student-athletes on and off the field.
In her 15 seasons as head coach, Knull owned a 108-157-0 record, with the second most wins in program history. Michele Madison, who led the team from 1995-2005, earned 155 victories in 13 seasons. Before Knull was named head coach in 2011, she was an assistant coach under Rolf van de Kerkhof from 2006 to 2010. As an assistant, she helped the team to a record of 74-34-0, laying the groundwork for her successful tenure to follow.
Knull led the Spartans to win the 2013 Big Ten Championship and earned 2013 NFHCA West Region Coach of the Year. She coached three NFHCA All-Americans, 15 All-Region picks, and 22 All-Big Ten selections, including seven first-team honorees.
"It has been an honor and a privilege to coach at Michigan State," said Knull. "The future of MSU Athletics is bright, and I’m excited to remain a fan and supporter of all our programs. Spartan Pride never dies."
Knull’s legacy extends beyond the field into the classroom and the broader world. She aimed to "develop the next generation of strong, confident women who will leave Michigan State ready to take on the world." During her tenure, her teams produced 216 Academic All–Big Ten selections, 80 Big Ten Distinguished Scholars and 216 NFHCA Scholars. In the fall of 2024 and spring of 2025, Knull’s athletes earned team GPAs of 3.79 and 3.82, respectively. Her emphasis on academics is evident throughout the program.
In 2024, Knull coached Ashley Harlock, the program’s first First Team Academic All-American, a Rhodes Scholarship nominee and a Marshall Scholarship finalist, reflecting the standards Knull set for her athletes and her ongoing commitment to excellence.
"Beyond the field of competition, her student-athletes were among the department’s highest academic achievers and were regularly involved in leadership opportunities and impactful community outreach initiatives," Michigan State Vice President and Director of Athletics J Batt said in an MSU Athletics press release.
Knull’s own journey is a unique one, hailing from overseas. Born in Scotland, Knull played for the National U-16 and U-18 teams before pursuing her college degree in the United States. She was a two-time All-American at Kent State, where she began her coaching career. After 15 years, however, it's East Lansing that she has made her home.
According to MSU Athletics, she will be pursuing employment outside of the sports industry while MSU will immediately start the search for her replacement. Whoever replaces Knull will have quite the legacy of athletic and academic achievement to live up to.
"To the Spartans I’ve had the honor of coaching — thank you. Thank you for choosing Michigan State and for impacting my life," Knull said. "From lifting Big Ten trophies to late-night road trips and everything in between, the memories are endless, and I am grateful for the role I’ve been able to play in each of your lives."
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