John Silan

Born in Rankin, PA, John graduated from the high school that was later named General Braddock High School. He played basketball for only one season in high school before moving on to Penn State University, where he led all freshman scorers and played two seasons of basketball. He received bachelor’s and master’s degrees and served in Europe with the 86th Division in WWII. John began a coaching career at Kutztown High School, building a championship team almost every season that he coached (1946-65). His overall coaching record was a brilliant 414-71 with a record of 245-21 in Berks League play. He accomplished 15 division championships, 12 county titles, eight district championships, four eastern championships and three state title teams while coaching the Cougars. He began a collegiate coaching career at Delaware Valley College in baseball and basketball. He was also the athletic director there. He returned to Berks County scholastic sports, coaching basketball for three seasons at Wilson High School. He guided the Bulldogs to a 60-17 mark and they captured a Berks County title (1977), their first county championship in 29 years.

Deceased