"A defensive standout on the gridiron in the late 1970s, John Belskis was a three-time First Team pick in the Indiana Collegiate Conference, which became known as the Heartland Collegiate Conference.

A Kodak All-America selection in 1976, Belskis led the nation in interceptions. The 10 picks he registered still rank as a Valpo single season record. In 1977, Belskis was named the ICC Most Valuable Defensive Back. He also was twice named to the National All-Lutheran Football Team, an honor he received in both 1976 and 1977.

An infielder on the Crusader baseball team, he was a three-year starter, serving as team captain during his senior campaign. He finished his career with 33 stolen bases over his final three seasons.

In 1977, Belskis was named Valparaiso University Athlete of the Year. Following his career at Valpo, Belskis was invited for a tryout for the Chicago Bears of the National Football League, before playing defensive back for the Chicago Fire of the American Football Association in 1981.

Following his playing career, Belskis has gone on to become the head football coach at Downers Grove South High School in Illinois where he has led the school to 13 conference titles in addition to the Class 8A state championship in 2001. In 18 seasons he has posted a 155-45 career record.