John began coaching boys cross country at CFHS in 1963. His first three teams went undefeated in dual meet competition. By 1970, the Tiger runners were among the best in Ohio, finishing second in the state meet. The following year, John’s team won the state crown, the first ever in any sport by a Chagrin team. During his 25 years as head coach, the Tigers compiled a 124-68 dual meet record. Along the way to the state title, his teams won five Chagrin Valley Conference championships. John was named CVC Coach of the Year in each of those years. In 1971, he was selected Northeast Ohio Coach of the Year.