Campus Connection

Drew Knapp has a unique way of introducing himself: “I’m a ninja.” The soon-to-be UWL graduate has a shot at becoming the next American Ninja Warrior, a title given to a person who completes challenging obstacle courses on the popular NBC/Esquire show. “Getting that phone call inviting me to compete on the show was amazing,” Knapp says. “Standing in front of that course with family and friends cheering me on will be something else.” Knapp participated to qualify in Indianapolis April 27-28. It was his goal for the past four years to make it onto the show, which requires participants to be 21 years old. “It’s unbelievable that it worked out,” he says. He’s been training with his brothers and friends for the opportunity ever since he was little. His motto going into the course is to ‘enjoy the obstacle.’ “I don’t want to sound cocky, but I’ve been doing this for so long and I have the skillset to go far,” he says. “I’ll be out there representing my family, my friends and my lord; but not to feel too much pressure, I’ll go out there and have fun.” Knapp will take this experience with him into his life after school, where he plans to open up his own ninja obstacle course gym, like this one in Minnesota where he has trained.