When John Shacklett was told he was the San Diego Hall of Champions 2009 Community Champion, he was stunned. “Why?” he asked. That’s typical of Shacklett, who sees nothing extraordinary in being involved in numerous organizations that deal with high school athletics.
“I’m truly amazed at the award and it’s greatly appreciated,” said Shacklett, who for 32 years walked the sidelines as the head coach at Morse High. During that span, he went 231-116-9, marching into the section championship eight times and walking away with the title on five of them. He captured 19 Eastern League crowns and sent numerous players on to college and the NFL.
The field at Morse High carries his name.
Along the way he was named to the California Coaches Hall of Fame as his 231 career wins is third all-time in San Diego and is still in the Top 20 in the state.
After moving off the sidelines, though, he stayed close to the game by donating countless hours with the San Diego Hall of Champions, including being part of the Champions Sports Corps student leadership program, serving on the Veterans’ Committee to the Hall of Fame and providing input to the Stars of the Month.
Additionally, Shacklett is an active member of the High School Sports Association, a board member of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame (Walter J. Zable Chapter), a member of the Chargers’ Leadership Team and the High School Sports Officials Coalition.
He is probably most recognized as a popular member of KUSI’s Prep Pigskin Report where each Friday night during football season he features one of the area’s outstanding linemen.
“I never anticipated getting an award like this, I’m just a guy,” said Shacklett. “It’s such an honor.”
Posted on March 8, 2010 by anthony
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