San Jose State, Sacramento State and Butler Take To The Stairs In Coach Knapp Stair Climb Campaign

NEW YORK - Oct. 23, 2025 - PRLog -- The Coach Knapp Memorial Fund, named in honor of veteran NFL assistant coach Greg Knapp, dedicated to educating drivers on the dangers of distracted driving, reduce the number of distracted driving related deaths, and promote distracted driving awareness reform, will return to Hornet Stadium this Friday as the Sacramento State Hornets meet the Montana Grizzlies, while the Butler Bulldogs and San Jose State Spartans will also stage runs at their respective home stadiums during their bye weeks, as the latest participants in the fourth season of the "Coach Knapp Stair Climb."

"The Knapp Memorial Stair Climb is an opportunity to honor the life of Greg Knapp — a remarkable football coach, mentor, and friend who inspired countless people. His legacy reminds us to look out for one another, both on and off the field. By participating in this event, we proudly carry forward Coach Knapp's spirit while raising awareness about the dangers of distracted driving. Every step we take is a tribute to his lasting impact — and a reminder that focus, attention, and responsibility can save lives," San Jose State Head Coach Ken Niumatalolo.

This year's initiative started during the preseason led by Ripon College, Lenoir-Rhyne University and the Los Angeles Rams, followed by the Green Bay Packers who climbed the Lambeau Field steps prior to their week 1 matchup. The San Francisco 49ers, Houston Texans and Seattle Seahawks also joined in last weekend, with over 500 coaches, players and staff participating in various forms on game days and during practice weeks.

The fund, which has raised over $300,000 to date already, was created by Greg's wife, Charlotte, and close friend and agent, the late Jeff Sperbeck, to honor the legacy of Greg Knapp who tragically passed away in July 2021 after being hit by a distracted driver while he was bicycling. Coach Knapp was known for climbing the stadium stairs before every single NFL game he coached over his 25 season career. All will be tagged #knappstairclimb on social platforms.

In honor of Coach Knapp, NFL coaches, players, executives and alumni will participate in raising funds and awareness at each NFL stadium prior to team warm ups. Teams confirmed to participate in the stair climb include: the Packers, Rams, Commanders, Falcons, Dolphins, Texans, Seahawks and 49ers as well as Fordham University, Syracuse University, Sacramento State, San Jose State, The University of Houston, Lenoir-Rhyne University and Ripon College. Additional participants will be announced.

https://www.knappmemorial.org/stairclimb