John Hamilton started wrestling at Calhoun High School on Long Island and continued a successful career at Central Connecticut State University.

He returned to Long Island and spent 18 years as a high school wrestling coach and administrator. He coached 10 years at East Meadow, five at Calhoun, two at Mepham and one at Oceanside. During his career he coached 10 Nassau County and 18 New York state place-winners.

In addition to coaching, he also regularly worked wrestling camps and clinics.

He also coached soccer for 14 years and was named Nassau County Coach of the Year in 1993.