A natural leader, John was a study in contrasts during his time at Towson (1982-1986). The standout second row and number eight was known for his easy-going demeanor and ready laugh but also for his tenacious pursuit, ferocious tackles and quickness to resume play after contact.

Less well known is his aptitude as a student of the game. Like many Towson ruggers, his first time on a pitch was at Towson. And yet, by the summer after his first season he had already been selected to the Potomac Rugby Union U23 international select side. Two years later, he was also competing with the Eastern Rugby Union’s U23s. The year after that he was named a Division I Collegiate All-American while serving as captain and club president.

The secret sauce in John’s rapid ascent was his hunger to learn. In fall 1982 while working at The Crease, once a fixture on the Towson bar scene, John met Towson ruggers Chris Dwyer and Bob Brown. Both encouraged him to join the club, and within a week John was suited up for a match against Delaware. “I worked with Bob the Friday night before the match. We stayed up half the night and he diagrammed plays on a legal pad so I would know what to expect.”