New Jersey City University Athletics

John is regarded as one of the finest soccer players in school history. He was an instrumental force in the early success of soccer at Jersey City State.  As a member of the first soccer team in 1959, under Coach Tom Gerrity, his outstanding play and team contributions earned him first team All-Conference honors. Downey was also named first team All-Conference in 1960 and 1961. In 1961 he lead the squad to their first NJSCAC championship posting a conference record of 4-0-1 with an overall mark of 8-2-1 one of the best in school history. Over his illustrious three year career, John scored twenty five goals and was team captain or co-captain in each year.