Former Queen’s Royal College goalkeeper from the 1993/94 period, Mario John has paid tribute to the Secondary Schools Football League for helping shape his career from footballer to medical practitioner.
Dr John is currently medical director of Hughston Clinic, Oviedo, located at Oviedo Medical Centre in Florida. He completed his general surgery internship at Harlem Hospital in New York City before completing his residency in orthopaedic surgery at Howard University Hospital in Washington, DC.
John played in the Championship Division and Intercol competitions in 1993 and 1994 and played in the Under 14 division in 1987.
“Participating in the SSFL game me a solid foundation that made me a success today. It gave me the opportunity to obtain a football scholarship to prepare me for a lifetime of academic pursuits,” John said.
“That discipline during that era gave me the purpose and drive to be a success during all the years of rigorous academic pursuits. I credit that time to my coaches and teachers. Most importantly my SSFL era bought me closer to my community and allowed to make alliances with fellow players, relationships that I cherish today.
“I think the SSFL is a great stepping stone for our young footballers to gain recognition whether via national football, going professional or obtaining scholarships as a means of financial aid to get a proper education.
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