Induction 2014

John has been a regular presence here at Dowling Catholic for many years, as an alum, a fan and notably through his work at the Des Moines Register. John writes about high school sports teams from throughout Central Iowa -- the big games, the rivalries, along with individual accomplishments. His work has helped develop a passion for sports in our area.

The Sports Editor of the Des Moines Register has this to say about John:

John is a widely respected member of the sports media in the state and among his Register peers. John’s organization and innovation and depth of knowledge are irreplaceable and a huge service to Iowans from border to border.

While at Dowling, John served as sports editor of the Dowling Spectrum, the student newspaper. Highlights include his articles on the 1979 state boys’ basketball championship run and 1979 football playoff team. He participated in several intramural athletic competitions, and was a member of the marching band, concert band and choir. He also served in student government.

At Iowa State University, he continued participating in similar endeavors -- sports editor of the Iowa State Daily, three-term student government senator and captain of 40 intramural teams.

His 26 years at the Des Moines Register as a ground-breaking journalist have been dedicated to the coverage of high school sports. A few of the many awards and accolades include:

• News Media Award winner from the Iowa High School Athletic Association (the state’s most distinguished award given to journalists covering high school sports)
• Three-time winner/co-winner of the Iowa Newspaper Association’s sports story of the year
• Part of the Emmy-winning team for the Register’s multi-media project on musician Buddy Holly
• Iowa High School Coaches Association sportswriter of the year
• Manages the Iowa Sports Hall of Fame

John lives in West Des Moines.