Hall of Fame
John Dalton grew up in Marietta, down the road from fellow Hall of Fame inductee and doubles partner, Brian Berry. John first learned of Young Harris College when he attended a tennis camp led by Coach Bob Nichols while still in high school. That experience led John to attend YHC and play collegiate tennis under the direction of Coach Nichols.
From the start, John loved the College and found himself involved beyond the tennis courts—something Coach Nichols challenged all of his players to do. During his two years at YHC, the tennis team reigned as NJCAA State Champions.
The team’s winning streak was unstoppable, as was John’s. He won the State Singles title at #5 position and the State Doubles title at #2 both years at YHC. John chalks much of his success up to the bonds he shared with his teammates.
During his sophomore year, John was voted “Mr. YHC,” capping off an incredible two years at the College that prepared him for life outside the Enchanted Valley. He went on to attend George Peabody College for Teachers, where John played on the college’s competitive and successful club team.
After receiving a bachelor of science in elementary education, masters of science in early childhood education and education specialist degree, John began his career in education. Over his 33 years of teaching and administration, he received multiple awards including Elementary Teacher of the Year for Gwinnett County Public Schools. Though now retired, John still dedicates time in the classroom as a technology teacher in two Gwinnett County elementary schools.
John has served on YHC’s Alumni Board of Directors and regularly attends reunion weekends at the College—time he uses to catch up with former teammates and play against fellow tennis alumni.
Today, John resides in Lawrenceville with his wife of 31 years, Laura. They have two sons, Jordan and Seth.
