Anderson High School, 1996 – 97
John is a two-time individual state champion. John’s first title came at the 1996 championships in the 500-yard freestyle. He also finished as runner-up in the 200-yard freestyle that year. As a senior, John repeated as champion in the 500 freestyle, setting a state record of 4:29.29, breaking fellow Anderson alumnus Todd Griner’s record. He finished as runner-up in the 200-yard freestyle, going the second fastest time ever at the championships with a 1:38.40, breaking the record but not setting it. John continued his swimming career at Pennsylvania State University where he was a three-time All-American and captain his senior year. He was part of the 1999 Big Ten Championship team, Penn State’s only men’s swimming