Columbus High School, 1955 – 59
John Roethke competed for Columbus High School, earning state championship titles in the 200 yard freestyle in 1957-58, the 100 yard freestyle in 1958-59, setting a state meet record by over 4 seconds in a time of 50.8, and the 150 yard Individual Medley as a senior in 1958-59, which was also a state meet record.. He was also a part of the winning 200 yard freestyle relay that earned a state championship in 1957-58. John went on to swim at Indiana University, where he earned All-American status in 1961. He was ranked fourth in the 200-yard individual medley and 10th in the 100-yard backstroke, and became an American and World record holder. John currently lives in Montgomery, Illinois with his wife Beverly, and is a retired teacher and coach.