 |
| Santa Rosa 1974 |
John Olmsted led a remarkable life characterized by significant achievements and dedication to various fields, particularly in education, athletics, law, and tennis. Born in 1931 in Chicago, he displayed early academic promise, skipping a grade in school and participating in various leadership roles, such as Hall Monitor and Patrol Boy. His athletic talent shone through in high school, where he earned a varsity letter in football and was voted Most Valuable Football Player.
Olmsted continued to excel in college at Augustana College, where he played football and was named to the All-Conference Defensive Team. His passion for sports extended beyond football; he was a tennis champion, winning city and county titles in San Bernardino and Sonoma County. He later became President of both the San Bernardino and Santa Rosa Tennis Clubs and directed major tennis tournaments in these regions.
Olmsted’s academic achievements were equally impressive. He graduated from Boalt Hall Law School in Berkeley, California, where he also won intramural tennis championships for two consecutive years. He was admitted to the California State Bar in 1966 and served as an attorney, as well as a Manpower & Organization Analyst, Budget Analyst, and Statistical Analyst at Norton Air Force Base in San Bernardino, CA.
In the tennis world, Olmsted was a highly respected figure. He was a member of both the USTA and USPTA, holding a Professional 1 Rating, and worked as a tennis instructor at multiple clubs. His dedication to the sport earned him the title of Player of the Year in 1992 and 2013, and he was ranked No. 1 in Northern California, No. 2 in Southern California, and No. 3 in the USA for doubles.
Beyond his professional and athletic achievements, Olmsted was a licensed pilot, and his legacy includes significant contributions to tennis in Northern California, where he trained players and organized tournaments. His son, Richard Olmsted, also became a notable tennis player, ranked No. 4 in the 18-and-under category in Northern California, reflecting his father’s influence and coaching.
As we reflect on John Olmsted's life, his achievements stand as a testament to his dedication, discipline, and passion across multiple domains. His contributions to tennis, law, and his community have left a lasting impact, making his legacy one of excellence and service.
EDUCATION
- Augustana
- Boalt Hall School of Law 1966
- Admitted to Bar of California 1966
AWARDS
- Most Valuable Football Player High School 1948
- Selected to All Conference/Team Cottege 1952
- San Bernardino City Tennis Champion Singles
- Sonoma County Tennis Champion (Singles, Doubles, Mxd Doubles.)
- University of California Tennis Inter-mural Singles (2 years) Doubles Champion 1965, 1966
- Ranked No. 14 in 35 & over for Northern California
ORGANIZATIONS
- President, Vice, president, Treasurer, San Bernardino
- Tennis Club (2 years)
- President Santa Rosa Tennis Club (2 Years)
- Director Rose Festival Tennis Tournament Sonoma County
- Kiwanis
- California State Bar
- Redwood Empire Trial Lawyers Association
EXPERIENCE
- Manpower & Organization Analyst
- Budget Analyst
- Statistical Analyst
- Attorney at Law
- Director Tennis Program City Of EL Cerritilo 1965, 1966
- Ranked Trained son Richard Olmsted ranked no. 4 in 18 and under Northern California
- Currently tennis pro at Oak Park Tennis Club and Wikiup Tennis Club, Santa Rosa, California
FROM THE EDITOR
- Our Tennis Pro, Player of the Year
John Olmsted, our Tennis Pro, was named “Player of the Year” by the Northern California Tennis Association and the Northern California Senior Tennis Association.
This award was based on John’s performance in the Men’s 60 Doubles for 1992. John and his partner, Jerry DeWitts of Novato, California, were the high point scorers in the 1992 NCTAM/Wilson Grand Prix.
The “Player of the Year” award was presented at the NCSTA Annual Awards Ceremony on January 9, 1993, held at the San Mateo Elks Club.
