John Nicola was on both the football and track teams at Hightstown High School. John distinguished himself in both sports due to his determination and drive. John was a starting defensive tackle for the football team for three years where he received numerous awards including All Conference, All Area and All State honors. He was a member of the first football team to win the CVC in 1977. The team lost in the state finals to Somerville.

As a freshman, John broke the school track record in the shot put. He continued to break his own record each year until he threw 54 feet 10 1/2 inches as a senior. This record still stands today. He also received numerous awards in track including All Conference, All Area and seventh place overall in the Meet of Champions.

John graduated from Lincoln Technical institute in 1983. He owns and runs the successful John's Auto Repair in East Windsor.

John lives in Hightstown with his wife, Melissa Alcorn a Hightstown grad, and his thee sons John, Billy and Tommy.