Triton Athletic
Hall of Fame
Inaugural Class of 2011
CONTENTS
Athletic Director’s Message
Program
Featured Speaker: Dr. John Yeager
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3
4
Inductees to the Hall of Fame
Bourbon Foundry
Coach Ron Smith
Lorea Feldman
Rich Rhodes
Dan Sharpe
John Yantiss
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12
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Selection Criteria
Nomination Procedure
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HALL OF FAME
Class of 2011
Athletic Director’s
Message
A Very Special
Thanks to the
Selection
Committee:
Ken Blackford
Hal Kuntz
Larry Lemler
Welcome to our Inaugural Athletic Hall of
Fame Banquet. The past 48 years at Triton
High School have provided innumerable
celebrations of noted accomplishment and
lasting memory. Our Hall of Fame provides
a similar special opportunity as we
recognize the contributions of Coaches,
Student Athletes, Alumni, and Contributors.
Dave Shively
Duane Walters
A Special
Thanks to:
Orion Lemler
Reed Monesmith
The Winning Edge
Coke - Plymouth
The reason for our gathering tonight is well
chronicled in the inductee profiles that
follow on the pages of this program. We
welcome the Triton community, our friends,
and our families who join us in this
celebration of a new tradition and know
that you share in our pride at the
accomplishments of these individuals. We
look forward, with you, to bestowing similar
accolades on those who will follow in these
remarkable footsteps.
Mason McIntyre
Director of Athletics
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Hall of Fame
Induction Banquet
Program
5:00 – 6:00 PM
Social Hour
6:00 PM
Welcome/Introductions
Remarks (Mason McIntyre)
Invocation
Dinner
Featured Speaker (Dr. John Yeager)
Introduction of Inductees
The Bourbon Foundry – Contributor
Ron Smith – Coach
Lorea Feldman – ’84
Rich Rhodes – ’72
Dan Sharpe – ’72
John Yantiss – ’66
Closing
Post Party
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Dr. John Yeager
Culver Academy
Center for Character Excellence
Director
Dr. John M. Yeager is the Director of the Center for Character Excellence at the
Culver Academies. A former faculty member in Boston University’s School of
Education and senior scholar at BU’s Center for the Advancement of Ethics and
Character, he has over 33 years of experience as an educator, coach,
consultant, professional athlete, and author.
John has worked with the Triton School Corporation to develop a model program
that helps teachers, staff, coaches and students 1) identify and activate their own
strengths to flourish within the school community; 2) focus on developing cleareyed, positive mindsets and springy resilience; and 3) develop healthy
relationships to mobilize and build high quality connections with each other.
Building strengths, resilience and relationships offer the first pathway to greater
engagement, greater achievement and greater well-being.
John consults with various independent and public schools and presents at
national and international conferences. Also, he is the author/co-author of two
books, and is currently co-authoring SMART Strengths: A Parent-TeacherCoach Guide to Building Character, Resilience and Relationships in Youth. John
is a member of both the New England Lacrosse Hall of Fame, and the University
of Massachusetts/Boston Athletic Hall of Fame.
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BOURBON FOUNDRY
Contributor
Brothers John and the late Eugene “Dusty” Westafer purchased the Bourbon
Foundry, located just south of the rail road tracks on Harris Street, in 1948. In 1976,
John sold his share of the business to Dusty’s son Doug. Then in 1979, Dave,
another of Dusty’s sons, also bought into the family business becoming a third
owner. The Westafer family owned and successfully operated the “cast iron”
Foundry until 1998.
The Bourbon Foundry and its employees knew the meaning of hard work. The
Foundry was a hot, dirty, and back breaking job, but they knew that the only way to
succeed was by working hard. The Westafer family believed that the student
athletes at Triton High School were learning this valuable lesson by participating on
the playing fields and courts. Because they saw the importance of such
experiences, the Bourbon Foundry was a regular contributor to the Triton Athletic
Department for over five decades.
Triton athletic teams benefited from team meals, equipment, sponsorships, and
many other contributions because of the Bourbon Foundry. In fact, the Foundry was
one of the early sponsors of radio broadcasts of Triton High School sports events,
even though the advertisements had no effect on any of the Triton Patrons.
The Bourbon Foundry was committed to supporting all Triton Athletes and expected
nothing in return. It didn’t matter to the Westafer family if the teams were winning or
losing, they continued to be there to support the Triton Athletic Department.
Although the Westafer family no longer owns and operates the Bourbon Foundry,
they continue to support the Triton Athletic Department. We will be forever grateful
for their contributions and would like to show our thanks by inducting the Bourbon
Foundry and the John and Dusty Westafer families as our first contributors.
In Loving Memory of Dusty Westafer who passed away January 12, 2002
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Ron Smith
Coach
Golf 1967-1996
Cross Country 1966-1990
Coach Smith is a 1957 graduate of Plymouth High School where he was a three sport
athlete. He participated in baseball, basketball, and track. He went on to play
basketball at Manchester College while earning a BS in Mathematics.
Coach Ron Smith began teaching Mathematics at Triton High School during the
1966-1967 school year. It was at this time that Coach Smith took over duties as the
head coach for the Cross Country and Boys Golf teams. He retired from Cross
Country in 1990 after 24 seasons as the head coach. At the completion of the 1996
Golf season, Coach Smith retired from coaching Golf. His biggest accomplishment in
the 28 seasons as the head golf coach was when his team won the NSC Golf
Tournament in 1988. It was in 1997 that he retired from teaching after giving 31 years
of service to the Triton School Corporation.
Coach Smith was not just a teacher and a coach, he was also active with the football,
basketball, and track teams. He drove the equipment truck for the football team, was
the team statistician for football, and the book keeper for the boys basketball team. He
coached 7th grade basketball for two years and Junior High Track for one year.
Coach Smith was a great teacher, coach, contributor, and an even better person. We
thank Coach Smith for his many years of service!
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Boys Golf Coach 1967-1996
Boys Golf NSC Champions 1988
Boys and Girls Cross Country Coach 1966-1990
Boys 7th Grade Basketball Coach 1966-1968
Boys Junior High Track Coach 1967
Boys Basketball scorekeeper, announcer, and time keeper for 25 years
Football stat keeper and equipment truck driver for 12 years
Coach Smith and his wife currently reside in Plymouth. They have one son and two
daughters. Their children have given them five grandchildren. Coach Smith still plays
golf almost every day he can. He also has a wood shop that he tinkers in and he and
his wife travel when they get the urge, which is fairly often.
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Q&A
with Coach Smith
What honors did you receive while participating in high school sports?
I received the James Lowell Corey Sportsmanship Award and was twice named to
the All-Sectional Basketball team.
Are there any awards outside of athletics that you are proud of?
I was a semi-finalist for the Teacher of the Year in Indiana.
What accomplishment in your HS Coaching career are you most proud of?
Winning the Northern State Conference Golf championship in 1988.
What is your fondest memory of your time at Triton High school?
Working with outstanding math students and athletes, that and along with many
coworkers.
What do you miss most about Triton High School Athletics?
Working with and being around young, enthusiastic people. Also, the thrill of
competition.
If you could give our current student athletes any advice what would it be?
I would tell them to get the job in the classroom done first. Next, get involved in
every sport you like and give it every ounce of energy you have. It’s a one time
shot, don’t miss it. The memories are great and last forever!
How do you define success and how were you able to achieve it?
To me, a successful person is one who sets goals to be achieved and does not
waiver until the goal is completed. My upbringing at home and athletics gave me
the drive and tools to stay focused and get it done.
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Q&A
with Coach Smith
What did high school sports teach you about life?
Sports taught me to work hard, complete tasks, get along with others, work
together, morals, leadership, and handling winning and losing. I also learned the
value of friendship, taking advice and direction, building character, and working
towards and achieving common goals.
Was there any one person who helped develop you into the person you are
today?
My mother, Rome Zink, Meryl Shivers, and Devon Burkett.
Who were your role models growing up (professional or local)?
George Cullers (math teacher and coach) and Bill Snyder and Frank Harrell (both
athletes).
How do you feel about having dreams and setting goals? What role have
they played in your life?
I believe dreams are how goals emerge and from those dreams goals are set. My
early goal was to be an athlete in Junior/Senior High school. From there I wanted
to play basketball in college. A college degree was the icing on the cake. Thus, I
became a math teacher and a coach.
Any additional comments you would like to make?
I graduated from Manchester and then went on to earn a Master’s degree from
Southeastern State College in 1965. When I went to get a job I had several schools
to choose from coming back to Marshall County and I chose Triton. Looking back
after 31 years, all at Triton, I definitely made the right decision. I could not have
picked a better school. How many people can say they love to go to work and do
what they do? I could!
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LOREA FELDMAN
Class of ’84
A graduate of 1984, Lorea Feldman was a 12-time Varsity Letter winner. Lorea
earned four letters in volleyball, four letters in basketball, and four letters in track.
Lorea received many athletic honors during her time at Triton High School and
during her collegiate basketball career at the University of Michigan. These honors
included:
•  Volleyball – Most Valuable Player 1982 and 1983
•  Volleyball – All-Conference Honors
•  Basketball – Most Valuable Player 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984
•  Basketball – Scored 1,563 career points
•  Basketball – 1984 Indiana All-Star
•  Basketball – All –State and the states leading scorer 1984
•  Basketball – 2009 Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame Inductee
•  Track – All-Conference Honors
•  Track – All-State Honors
•  Female Athlete of the Year - 1984
Basketball Career at the University of Michigan
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Played basketball at Michigan from 1984-1989
Finished her Wolverine career with 1,260 points
Holds the Big Ten FT % record at 92%
She is in the all time top 20 for rebounds, steals, and blocked shots at
Michigan
Won All-Tournament honors in the 1986 Investor’s Women’s Classic
Received All-Big Ten Honorable Mention honors in 1985, 1986, and
1987
Was twice named the Big Ten Player of the Week
Two time MVP
Lorea currently resides in Concord, California with her 15 year old cat Noodle. She
is the Director of Admissions at Carrington College in California. Lorea enjoys
spending quality time with friends and family, watching sports, golfing, reading, and
doing things she’s never done before (adventures).
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Q&A
with Lorea Feldman
What accomplishment in your HS Athletic career are you most proud of?
Leading the state in scoring my senior year, being a member of the Indiana All Star Team, and earning an athletic scholarship to the University of Michigan.
What is your fondest memory of your time at Triton High School?
The ceremony when the #30 jersey was retired and the standing ovation at the
Warsaw sectional when our team got eliminated from play.
What do you miss the most about Triton High School Athletics?
The support from the community, celebrating our successes with teammates
who were also close friends and knowing that our coaches were going to do
everything possible to support us.
If you could give our current student athletes any advice what would it be?
To take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way, stepping out of
your comfort zone to become the best person you can be. Your attitude is an
aspect of life that will follow you wherever you go so make sure it is positive.
Our attitude will dictate our successes or failures.
How do you define success and how were you able to achieve it?
Success to me is touching other people’s lives and helping them become a
better version of themselves.
How do you feel about having dreams and setting goals? What role have
they played in your life?
To me dreams and goals keep me focused on the future rather than the past.
On my first day at my new job, my supervisor handed me the book “Dream
Manager” and told me that dreams do come true at the Pleasant Hill campus.
He is an amazing man and I feel very blessed to be working for him. Since
reading the book, I have set many dreams for myself over the next 5 years.
What did high school sports teach you about life?
Sports taught me how to be a team player and the type of results that are
possible with hard work and a common goal.
Was there any one person who developed you into the person you are today?
I didn’t have one person but many that have influenced my life. I definitely
know that my family has had a huge impact on me becoming the person I am
today. I am very thankful to have such a supportive family.
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Q&A
with Lorea Feldman
Did you ever face adversity in your athletic career? If so, what was it and how
did you overcome it?
The college coach that recruited me for 2 years quit about 5 months before I was
headed to college. I was very scared and confused about what happened, however
I decided to take a leap of faith and trust that the coach who would replace her
would get the job done. Later in life, I have had to deal with new bosses and learn
to adjust to their management style just as I did at Michigan.
Who were your role models growing up (professional or local)?
I watched Larry Bird any time I had a chance. He was a great player who was
always under control on the court.
Any additional comments you would like to make or information that you feel
would be important for us to know?
Playing sports has given me many opportunities throughout my life. Many of the
interviews that I have had were because I have a sports background and the
management positions have given me the opportunity to “coach” my team even
though we don’t use a ball.
“Lorea was an intelligent, athletic, and hard working student athlete. She got along
well with others and was a great leader. Lorea pushed not only herself but her
teammates to become they best that they could. I enjoyed my time with Lorea and
strongly believe that she is a great choice for the inaugural class of the Triton
Athletic Hall of Fame.”
- Coach Jan Caudle
“One of the privileges of being a teacher and a coach is getting to know and work
with student athletes who make a difference with their outstanding performances.
Lorea Feldman was indeed one o those remarkable individuals. Her attitude and
efforts made her a “one of a kind” player, and it was a true honor to have her as a
member of our teams. As a player and team leader, a person would be hard
pressed to find someone with any more drive, ambition and unselfishness. Lorea
was a “trailblazer” for girl’s athletics at Triton School Corporation. Our female
athletes of today are the recipients of being treated as equals to our male athletes.
This was done to fully recognize the achievements of this fine lady we are now
honoring.
With her legendary and well documented accomplishments, it would be easy for
some to take credit for what she did as a Lady Trojan. As a person who witnessed
first hadn her high school career, it is very easy to say Lorea Feldman did it on her
own. It was a great privilege to be called her coach.”
- Coach Larry Wattenbarger
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RICH RHODES
Class of ’72
A graduate of 1972, Rich Rhodes was a 7-time Varsity Letter winner. Rich earned
three letters in basketball, two letters in cross country, one letter in golf, and one
letter in track.
Rich received many athletic honors during his time at Triton High School and during
his basketball career at the collegiate and professional levels. These honors
included:
•  Basketball – 1972 All-Sectional First Team
•  Basketball – Co - MVP 1972
•  Basketball – Co-captain 1972
Collegiate Basketball Career
•  Basketball - Received a scholarship to Grace College
•  Basketball – MVP at Grace College his FR year
•  Basketball – All Conference at Grace College
•  Basketball – Transferred to Eastern Illinois
•  Basketball – MVP at Eastern Illinois
•  Basketball – NCAA Division II All-American Third Team 1977
Professional Basketball Career
•  Basketball – Drafted by the Chicago Bulls as the 13th pick in the 8th
round of the 1977 NBA draft
•  Basketball – Played for the Georgia Titans in the ABA in 1978 and
averaged 13.0 points per game
Rich is currently retired and lives in Scottsdale, Arizona with his wife Luella. They
have three sons Mitch, Kyle, and Sam. Before Rich retired, he was an
entrepreneur, business owner, and real estate investor. In his free time, Rich
enjoys playing golf and exercising.
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Q&A
with Rich Rhodes
What accomplishment in your high school athletic career are you most proud
of?
Making the Varsity Basketball team.
Were there any special awards that you received playing sports at the
collegiate level?
I was All-Conference at Grace College my freshmen year. I also received the Most
Valuable Player award at Grace.
I transferred to Eastern Illinois where I received All-Conference honors and the
Most Valuable Player award. My senior year at Eastern Illinois I was named to the
All-American Third Team.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy spending time on the golf course. Any day on the course beats a day in the
office! I also enjoy spending time exercising.
What have you done professionally since graduating from Triton High School?
I went on to play basketball at the collegiate level for both Grace College and
Eastern Illinois University. In 1977 I was drafted by the Chicago Bulls and had a
short professional career with the Bulls and the Georgia Titans.
When my athletic career ended I began a career in business. I have been an
entreprenuer, business owner, and real estate investor. I have since retired and
spend a lot of my time in Scottsdale, Arizona..
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Q&A
with Rich Rhodes
“Rich Rhodes. Wow! What can I say about Rich that will do him justice? I
remember that as an 8th grader he didn’t play basketball. I talked to him at the old
Tippecanoe gym one day and made him promise he would play basketball when he
got into high school. Rich lived up to his promise.
I remember his junior year we went to Warsaw and Rich forgot his shoes. Brad
sellers had the same size and Rich wore those and scored 15 to beat Warsaw
69-67. A few games later Rich exploded for 36 points.
Rich kept getting better and better. He went to Grace College his Freshmen year
and was MVP. He transferred to Eastern Illinois and was later drafted by the
Chicago Bulls. A broken jaw kept Rich from having a long NBA career. I think he
would have been a great NBA player.
I believe that as an educator it takes sometimes 20 to 30 years to know if we’ve
been successful. We have to look at what our students have done with their lives
once they are gone. Rich has certainly been successful and made me proud.”
- Coach Creighton Burns
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DAN SHARPE
Class of ’72
A graduate of 1972, Dan Sharpe was a 13-time Varsity Letter winner. Dan earned
three letters in football, three letters in basketball, four letters in track, and three
letters in baseball.
Dan received many athletic honors during his time at Triton High School. These
honors included:
•  Football - Most Valuable Back 1970 and 1971
•  Football – Most Valuable Player 1971
•  Football – South Bend Tribune All-Northern Indiana 1st Team 1971
•  Basketball – Defensive Player Award – 1971 and 1972
•  Basketball – Free Throw % – 1971 and 1972
•  Basketball – 1st Team All-Sectional 1972
•  Basketball – The Pilot News All County Team 1972
•  Basketball – Co-MVP 1972
•  Track – Most Valuable Player – 1970, 1971, and 1972
•  Track – Marshall County Meet High Point – 1972
•  Track – Three Rivers Conference Meet High Point 1972
•  Track – 1972 IHSAA State Finals – 5th place in the long jump
•  Track – School Record Holder in the 100 and Long Jump
•  Male Athlete of the Year 1972
Dan was a member of the Triton chapter of the National Honor Society. He went on
to earn a Bachelor of Architecture degree and also a BS in Environmental Design
from Ball State University. Although he did not participate in athletics at Ball State,
he did join several intramural teams (flag football, track, basketball, volleyball, and
bowling) and was the Long Jump champ in 1972.
Dan worked for RR Donnelly’s, Ame’s Paint Store, and Tom Sell’s Construction
during his summers while in college. After graduating from Ball State, Dan has
worked for various Architecture firms for the past 32 years.
Dan currently resides in Tucson, Arizona with his wife Kelly. Dan and Kelly have
been married for 22 years and have two children, Danielle and Christian. Dan likes
to spend his time reading about architecture and construction, attending the
University of Arizona basketball games, watching sports and NASCAR, cars, and
music. Most of all, Dan enjoys spending time with his family.
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Q&A
with Dan Sharpe
What accomplishment in your HS Athletic career are you most proud of?
All Northern Indiana first team football honors in 1971 as a half back. Being part of a
basketball team that won the Bi-County Tournament in 1970-197 and being on the 1st
Triton High School Football team to have a record of 8 and 1 in 1971. 100 yard dash
and long jump records set in 1972. 5th in the State in the long jump 1972. Most
valuable athlete award in 1972.
What do you miss the most about Triton High School Athletics?
I miss the great friendships that became established over the many years together
practicing, traveling and competing. I look back fondly on the hard work and the great
feeling of accomplishment of contributing to winning for the school and the community,
of being part of a team with a common cause, and common lifestyles with high
standards and common goals.
If you could give our current student athletes any advice what would it be?
Work as hard in the classroom as you do in practice. Set high standards and work to
be the best you can. Set a good example for those that will follow you. Take what you
learn as being part of a team and apply it to your life beyond athletics because the
same lessons you learn in practice and in competition apply to real life and the real
world. Above all, have fun while you’re doing it.
What did high school sports teach you about life?
Hard work begets achievement and self satisfaction. Being part of a team demands
individual responsibilities. Sports teaches you that when times are tough or difficult you
know you’ll be able to withstand it. Those that share common goals and achievements
with you will always be there for you as friends.
Was there any one person who develop you into the person you are today?
I could name many but those that come to mind first are my immediate family (mother,
brothers, and sister). My brothers Joe and Tom were probably my biggest influence in
sports since I followed their footsteps. My sister kept me in line with everything else. At
school, coaches and teachers that showed great influence in me were Coach
Kovaleski, Coach Burns, Coach Charlie Smith and Coach Ron Smith in my early track
years and as a math teacher. I have to say that all my close friends and teammates
were key influences since we spent so much time together.
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Q & A with Dan Sharpe
Did you ever face adversity in athletics and how did you overcome it?
As a freshman in basketball I started out on the B-Team but was then moved to the
freshman squad. We had an 8-0 eighth grade team the year before with which I started at
guard and played well. In those days it was quite an honor to move up to the B-Team or
even the Varsity as Max Trowbridge did that year (1969-70). It was a very disappointing
change to me at the time. After a while it was fine. I did what was asked of me and worked
hard. I believe the freshman team was very successful that year and I was allowed to dress
with the Varsity team too. In fact I got into a couple of Varsity games that year. Quitting
wasn’t an option for me. I learned to swallow my pride and realized being part of the
freshman team was by no means a lesser role to serve. After that year I made the Varsity
team and never played B-Team.
Who were your role models growing up (professional or local)?
My brothers Joe and Tom Sharpe
How important are dreams and goals? What role have they played in your life?
It’s always important to look ahead. I’ve found if I set goals within my reach, work hard and
am reasonable about it, achieving those goals is most satisfying. There are still goals in my
life I haven’t been able to fulfill. I’ve not given up on them, but I’m not worried about not
getting there anymore.
“Dan was a true athlete with a lot of talent. One of the quickest athletes I had the
opportunity to coach at Triton and I regret that I only coached Dan during his freshmen year
in high school; but I knew he was going to be a good one. He too represented Triton at the
IHSAA state track and field meet in the long jump which he certainly excelled in. Like other
great athletes Dan was dedicated to his sport and put in the necessary time and effort to
achieve his goals. Dan’s induction to the hall of fame is most deserving.”
-Coach Frank Kovaleski
“Danny was a very quiet student. A silent assassin if you will. He was just as good in the
classroom as he was in athletics. He was a great halfback, basketball player, baseball
player and track star. Danny placed 5th in the state in the long jump in 1972. He is very
deserving of this award.
- Coach Creighton Burns
“Dan Sharpe was a hard worker and a team player. He was a multi-sport athlete and
excelled in all areas. He played tailback for me and never got hurt because he was too
quick. Triton football had a stretch that we went 27-9-1. Dan was very instrumental in this
success. Dan Sharpe was a great athlete and a great person!
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- Coach Charlie Smith
JOHN YANTISS
Class of ’66
A graduate of 1966, John Yantiss was a 14-time Varsity Letter winner. John earned four
letters in cross country, two letters in basketball, four letters in track, and four letters in
baseball.
John received many athletic honors during his time at Triton High School. These honors
included:
•  Cross Country – Regional Finalist in 1963 and 1964
•  Cross Country – Individual Finalist in 1965
•  Cross Country – County Champion in 1965
•  Cross Country – MVP 1965
•  Track – County Champion in the 880 yard run in 1964, 1965, 1966
•  Track – County Champion in the Mile in 1966
•  Track – Regional Finalist in the 880 yard run in 1964 and 1965
•  Track – State Finalist in the 880 yard run in 1966
•  Track – School record holder in the 220, 440, and 880.
•  Track – Sectional Champion in the 880 in 1966
•  Track – MVP 1966
•  Male Athlete of the Year 1966
Cross Country and Track Career at Taylor University
•  Member of the Taylor Cross Country and Track team from 1966-1970
•  Conference Cross Country Team Champions 1966-1969
•  Conference Track Team Champions 1966-1970
•  Taylor school record holder in the Mile Relay
•  Member of Taylor’s Track “Top 10 Times” in the 880 yard dash with a time of
1:56.0
John graduated from Taylor University in 1970. He taught and coached cross country,
basketball, and track at Indianapolis Baptist High School from 1971-1985. He also taught
in the Indianapolis Public School System from 1989-2005. He is currently teaching Math
and PE/Health at Legacy Christian School in Noblesville, Indiana where he also serves
as the schools Athletic Director.
John currently resides in Indianapolis. He has three children, Danette, Jacob, and Amy,
and two twin granddaughters Abby and Aubrey. John spends his free time officiating,
cycling, traveling, fishing, hunting, and golfing.
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Q&A
with John Yantiss
Are there any awards/honors outside of Athletics that you are proud of?
“Distinguished Hoosier Award” – presented by Governor Whitcomb for riding with
the Wandering Wheels group across the USA in 1970. I received the Outstanding
Track and Cross Country Official award by the Indiana Association of Track and
Cross Country Coaches. In 2003 I received the IHSAA “Official of the Year” award
in Track and Field and in Cross Country in 2009. I was a “Hall of Fame Official” at
New Castle in 2001 and 2002. In 2009 I received the “Outstanding Service Award”
presented by the USA Track and Field committee. I have started the IHSAA state
finals four times in Cross Country, four times in Girls Track, and 6 times in Boys
Track. I have officiated 14 Sectionals and 4 Regionals in Boys Basketball and 14
Sectionals and 5 Regionals in Girls Basketball.
What accomplishment in your HS Athletic career are you most proud of?
Receiving the “Outstanding Male Athlete of the Year” in 1966, being an IHSAA
State Finalist in the 880 yard run in 1966, and being a member of the 1965 SemiState finalist basketball team.
What is your fondest memory of your time at Triton High School?
Being on the 1965 Semi-State Basketball team, the time with teammates in sports
(Roger Moriarty, Joel Berger, Bob Weirick, Dave Reichard, Gail Law, Dave &
Dennis Westafer, Dennis Schori) and Math class with great Senior classmates,
Herbert Fites in the bell tower after graduation, running back from Summit Chapel
Hill after a CC meet, and Senior English with Mrs. Booz on a warm May afternoon
the last period of the day. How could you limit the memory of Triton to just one?
What do you miss the most about Triton High School Athletics?
The special times with fellow athletes I trained with over my four years at Triton and
those friendships that were developed almost 50 years ago.
Was there any one person who helped develop you into the person you are
today?
Besides my parents I would say Coach Tony Newell and Donald Dowdy. But most
of all it was my parents who instilled a philosophy of doing things well the first time,
that you are only as good as your word, to help others in need, to be polite and
courteous (especially to young ladies), and to have CHARACTER.
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Q & A with John Yantiss
If you could give our current student athletes any advice what would it be?
Enjoy the moments and these four short years to the fullest because they will never
return. Make the most of them and work hard. Enjoy the time spent with
teammates. Choose to inspire others to be like you. Set the best example of what
a Triton High School Athlete should be through determination, sportsmanship,
character, and love of family, school, God, and Country.
How do you define success and how were you able to achieve it?
Success is enjoying what you do and having few if any regrets. Success is how
you have affected other people and their lives in a positive way. Working hard
through self sacrifice and dedication to achieve the goals you have set for yourself.
I was able to go to the State meet in track my senior year, ran Track and Cross
Country at Taylor University, and was successful in coaching high school sports in
Indianapolis for over 30 years. But it is having students and athletes return to visit
and comment on the influence I have had on their life that lets me know I have been
successful in my career as an educator.
What did high school sports teach you about life?
Teamwork is primary for success. Making your teammates better in turn makes
you better. Hard work pays off and you get out of it what you put into it.
Who were your role models growing up (professional or local)?
Dick Trowbridge, Bill Church, Will Metheny, Joel Berger, and the players on the
Boston Celtics basketball team of the Era.
How important are dreams and goals? What role have they played in your
life? They are very important in achieving success. I have always wanted to
compete at a high level as an individual, as a coach, and as an official. I have
officiated IHSAA state finals in two different sports, the USA Olympic Trials, and
Sectionals and Regionals in basketball. Having dreams and setting goals is key to
establishing your vision in life.
“John was one of the finest track and field athletes I have had the pleasure to
coach. His commitment and work ethic was at the top of the scale and he had true
God given talent. Unfortunate for John we had no quarter mile track so practice
was held in the street and at the local half mile horse track. Despite the lack of
facilities John represented Triton High School in the half mile event at the IHSAA
State Track and Field meet. It certainly is appropriate that John be in the first class
of the hall of fame as he has always been a great ambassador for the Triton
community.”
- Coach Frank Kovaleski
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SELECTION CRITERIA
Individuals may be nominated representing four categories. The
categories are included on the nomination form for expediency in
understanding the primary area(s) of a nominated individual and for
consideration of one’s interscholastic achievements.
Athlete and alumni nominees must be Triton Graduates and have
graduated at least ten years ago.
ATHLETE: Any person who distinguished himself/herself in the field of
athletics while a student at Triton High School. Criteria considerations
should include All-State recognition, IHSAA State Contest competitor,
outstanding college accomplishments, and college scholarship recipient
or collegiate participant. Other considerations may be taken into
account.
ALUMNUS/ALUMNA: Any person who distinguished himself/herself in
the field of athletics after graduation from Triton High School.
COACH: Any coach with at least five years of service at Triton High
School and 10 years of coaching experience. The nominee must be
inactive to be eligible for consideration. Criteria consideration should
be based on accomplishments that merit statewide recognition as well
as significant contributions to the athletic programs at Triton High
School.
CONTRIBUTOR: An individual or business who has made outstanding
contributions to the interscholastic athletic programs at Triton High
School other than coaching and playing.
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