John "Jack" Wigley
by Todd Peterson
For those who knew and loved him, the late John "Jack" Wigley was that rare, almost-perfect combination - an amazing, talented athlete in high school, an excellent student that became a well-respected teacher and, last but not least, a legendary coach.
He was born in Jamestown in 1934 and was a 1952 graduate of the former Lakewood High School (now Southwestern), where his academic abilities earned him the honor of class salutatorian. He also was an incredible athlete (many say he was the best ever) that was an all-star in five sports - football, basketball, baseball, track and volleyball. In fact, his long-jump record of 22 feet, 2 inches still stands after more than 60 years.
Scouts took note of Wigley's baseball abilities and following his high school career, he signed a professional contract with New York Giants organization, a decision that made him ineligible for playing at the college level.
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