29 Aug John Colich named to USATF Foundation Board of Directors
PITTSBURGH-
The USATF Foundation is pleased to welcome John Colich as the newest member of its Board of Directors, announced USATF Foundation Chairman Bob Greifeld and CEO Tom Jackovic. Colich, a lifelong supporter of track and field and a dedicated advocate for athletic development, brings extensive experience and a passion for the sport that will greatly benefit the Foundation’s mission.
Colich is a graduate of the University of Southern California (USC) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and has been a transformative figure in the world of USC Athletics, particularly in track and field. As a former shot putter for USC from 1967 to 1971, Colich has a deep personal connection to the sport and has made significant contributions to its growth and success.
In 2019, John and his wife, Janine, provided the lead gift for the Colich Track and Field Center, which opened in 2021. Building on their commitment to advancing athletic opportunities, the Colich’s recently funded the construction of the Colich Throwing Center. This world-class training center in the Wilmington section of Los Angeles caters to USC discus, hammer, shot put, and javelin throwers, as well as local youth athletes. The facility is part of their broader vision to create spaces where athletes of all levels can excel and grow.
John and Janine’s contributions to USC Athletics extend beyond track and field. In 1966, John’s father, Don Colich, built the original track & field weight room known as “The Dungeon,” which John and Janine later enhanced. Their unwavering support for USC was recognized in 2017 when they received the USC Track and Field Heritage Award and again in 2020 with the Legend of Troy Award. More recently, they were honored with the University of Southern California Alumni Service Award, acknowledging their commitment to the university and their community.
Beyond his contributions to USC, John is actively involved in his community. He serves on the Board of the Little Company of Mary Medical Center Foundation and founded the South Bay Athletic Club (SBAC), a 501(c)(3) public charity dedicated to fostering athletic interest and opportunities among USC student-athletes and underserved youth in the Wilmington community. The SBAC promotes a “full circle” approach, where today’s elite athletes inspire and engage the next generation.
John is also the owner of Colich & Sons, a general engineering construction firm, and Southwest Pipeline & Trenchless Corp., both of which have served California’s infrastructure needs for over 50 years.
“I am proud to join the USATF Foundation Board and look forward to bringing more awareness and support to the sport. Giving back has always been important to me, and I am excited to contribute to the growth and success of track and field,” says Colich.