John Horn has been in the coaching business for 35 years, 30 as head coach. In those 30 years, he has compiled a dual meet record of 353-311-7. In four years at Salem high school Horn amassed 61 dual wins and won two district championships. He coach for 14 years at Sprague high school before taking over the helm at North Salem high school.

In 14 years at North Salem, Horn directed his teams to four district championships and two top 10 finishes at the State Tournament. In total, he produced 36 individuals District champions and seven state champion wrestlers. Horn served as coach for the South African cultural exchange tour in 1972 and hosted many other cultural exchange teams and meets. Along with Jerry Lane, he cofounded the Capital City Mat Club, which has been in existence for 28 years.

For his widespread influence on the sport of Wrestling John Horn is honored with the National Wrestling Hall Fame - Oregon Chapter “Lifetime Service to Wrestling” Award.