But convinced he would only be a marginal pro athlete, he opted for a career in telecom. He instituted a new strategy and replaced 10 of the top 12 executives. Knowling has deployed broadband infrastructure faster than rivals, and signed distribution pacts with 250 Internet service providers, which sell his service under their own brands. While many rivals plan to offer cable or DSL, Covad plans to offer both. It expects to have 1 million subscribers within two years.
Analysts say that's no problem.
Knowling is just as committed to charitable causes. He requires employees to devote at least one day a year to community service. Indeed, Knowling doesn't talk up sports to his own kids. ''Too many black children think of success in terms of athletics. That is, after Knowling is done taking his share. The McGraw-Hill Companies Inc. All rights reserved.