John may well be the only blind state wrestling champion in Minnesota history, winning the title in 1953. He was runner-up in 1954. John continued wrestling at the University of Minnesota where he graduated with a degree in journalism. "From golf to water skiing, this Minneapolis native participated in and master every sport. And he did it while practicing what he was preaching: that blind can be physically active", states Star Tribune staff writer, Allice Shah, in an article upon Ross' death in 1998. Ross went on to become an accomplished writer, he was author of "Devils Gate Road", one of six novels he would write. He was also editor of "Feeling Sports" magazine for the blind, and may have been the last writer to interview legendary baseball great, Babe Ruth, while working for the Minneapolis Daily Hearld. Ross also developed "Beep Baseball" for the blind. The words "no" or "you can't do that" were only a motivation In the life of John Ross according to his son Casey. He is the recipient of this year's "Metal of Courage" for the way he overcame what may well have been a great handicap for most people. Life is a challenge, sports are a challenge, and John Ross was a winner at both, the way he lived his life!