John Ballard

Football & Wrestling - Class of 1969

"John played a pivotal role in the early years of South. He cultivated a culture of not only winning and achievement, but of care and commitment to his teammates and programs. At 6'5" and 230 in high school, John was a big presence on the football field and in the wrestling room. He used his big presence to earn All Sunflower, All Northeast Kansas, and All State awards on both offense and defense in football; as well as 2nd and 3rd place league titles and a 3rd place state title in wrestling. Furthermore, he used his big presence to elevate and enhance those around him.

According to John, athletics are a "gateway to get better and go beyond." They provide the opportunity "to meet people and give back." The spirit of generosity and fellowship permeates everything that John has done. He attributes this servant leadership to his coaches and family. He recognized Guy Malone as seminal in his life, a coach who pushed John to do more than he thought capable. John also was honored to play for Coach John Davis, who remained a valued mentor and close friend until the day Coach Davis passed.

John, who played football at KU and who remains an active and distinguished member of the Jayhawk community, recounts an anecdote from his dad, who played basketball for Phog Allen. When asked to identify the best players in a program, Coach Allen said, "ask me 25 years after they played." And here we are, 55 years later, celebrating one of the greatest Raiders of all time."