At Cornell, John was a 4-time hardest worker and a 1-time MVP of the swim team.ĭuring his college days and beyond, John found his niche in the sport of open water swimming. John went on to run for one year in college, but continued to swim for all 4 years at Cornell University. He was a Pennsylvania state champion in high school swimming and all-district in cross country. John came from a competitive swimming and running background.