John Evers

John Evers came to train with the Masters group Scott Tripps coached many years ago, and it was only for a few years, but the time he got to coach him was just fantastic. Scott remembers when he first walked onto the pool deck, and all he could think was, “Who is this guy?” He was just a huge man, he thought, “I would not have ever wanted to race this guy”. His shoulders were gigantic, he was tall—just an imposing presence.

Then we got in the water, and he was smooth like butter, just so clean in the water. All the strokes—especially breaststroke—but really all of them were smooth and powerful. Again, Scott thought, “I would not want to race or compete against this guy.” He was intimidating not only in size, but in how good his swimming was.

But then you get to know him, and you find out he’s just a gentle giant. Don’t get me wrong—he was a fierce competitor—but also one of the kindest people Scott has ever met. So while Scott may not have been thrilled to race him, he knew John would have him by about a foot in height and probably 50 pounds in strength in a tough race.

John’s swimming journey began back in Wisconsin as a freshman in high school. He grew through the sport, swam in college, and then started Masters swimming in 1980. So you can do the math—he’s been swimming Masters for about 45 years.

He started Masters swimming as a father, and about five years in, he had his fourth child. As many of you know, it can be challenging to figure out how to fit in practices with family life. He was fortunate to find a lunchtime practice that allowed him to balance his responsibilities at home and work.

John’s affinity for the water and his passion for swimming have marked him as one of the standout adult Masters competitors in Minnesota and even across the country. Over the years, he has compiled an exceptional competitive record, with numerous U.S. Masters top-10 rankings.

For many of us, Masters swimming is about far more than just times and performances. It’s about friendships, lifelong growth, and the joy of pushing ourselves each and every day—and John embodies this 100%.

He has been a force in Masters swimming for 45 years—more than 20 of those with Minnesota Masters. He holds state records in breaststroke and the IM, in yards, short course meters, and long course meters. He has finished in the top three at Short Course Nationals, primarily in the breaststroke events.

John has made a huge impact on swimming—from his teenage years to now.