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John M. Barth - Portage / UW-Platteville

03/01/1983, 12:00am CST
By Wisconsin Sports Network

Born January 24, 1918 in Rockford, IL

Attended Madison East High School, Graduated from Ripon College 1941, MS degree from UW-Madison 1943

Coached at Portage High School 1941-47, UW-Platteville 1947-60.

John began his coaching career at Portage High School in 1941. He was head football, basketball, boxing, track and baseball coach. In six years his football teams won 33 and lost 8 while winning two conference championships.

From 1947 to 1982 John served as Athletic Director and Chairman of the Department of Health and Physical Education at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

Football achievements include championships in 1952, 1953, 1954, 1956 and 1957. As defensive coordinator he developed the top defensive team in the nation in small college division in 1956. Opponents were limited to 48 yards total rushing per game.

As an athlete John was an All-City football and basketball player in Madison. He also won All-Midwest honors in football and basketball while playing at Ripon College. He may hold the record for coaching the most collegiate sports: football, basketball, track, tennis, golf, and baseball. His record in basketball was 252-92, and two trips to the National Tournament.

At Platteville John has been the foundation of the Physical Education Program. He oversaw planning and construction of all major physical education and athletic facilities now in use.

He was inducted into the UW-Platteville Hall of Fame in 1980, Was Madison's Favorite Son by the Pen and Mike Club in 1981, and in 1982 was inducted into the NAIA District #14 Athletic Hall of Fame.

Tag(s): Hall of Fame