Legendary Rocket League star Jacob “JKnaps” Knapman has been named St. Clair College’s Head Coach.
Knapman is a former professional Rocket League player turned coach, known as the most successful Canadian Rocket League player of all time.
“St. Clair College is known for being one of the best esports programs not just in Canada, but in the world. To have one of the best facilities, and world-class players, is the cherry on top,” said Knapman. “It’s something I knew I wanted to be a part of.”
As a player, Knapman appeared in 12 Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS) Main Events, six Major Finals and won six North American Championships. Following his retirement as a player in early 2025, he transitioned to Assistant Coach with Shopify Rebellion and most recently was named as the Head Coach for Team Canada in the Esports Nations Cup.
“Bringing Jacob into our coaching staff is a major step forward for our Rocket League program. Few people understand what it takes to compete at the highest level of Rocket League better than he does,” said Esports Director Shaun Byrne. “It's hard to overstate how big of a coach signing this is. This would be like bringing on Sidney Crosby or Connor McDavid to coach our hockey teams.”
Last year, the Saints Rocket League team claimed the Canadian Esports National Championship, the fall Collegiate Rocket League (CRL) and National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) North American Championships. In spring, the team took a step backwards and finished 5th in NACE and 7th in CRL.
The addition of Knapman to the Saints coaching staff will aim to keep the team in the mix within Collegiate Rocket League as it is known for being the most competitive title of all collegiate esports.
“After narrowly missing playoffs this spring, we’re excited about the leadership, experience, and competitive mindset he’ll bring as we push to get back into contention this fall,” added Byrne. “I'm excited at the thought of what Jacob, and his championship pedigree, can do to hone their skills and bring us to the next level.”