J.R. is a West Michigan native, having grown up and played high school water polo in Rockford. He now resides in Grandville and has 2 children playing with Great Lakes Aquatics. J.R.'s extensive playing and officiating career includes playing with the former varsity-program, University of Massachusetts where he captained the team as a goalie 3 times to the NCAA Final Four Championships. J.R. played at Grand Valley State University transitioning to the field where he lead GVSU to their first Collegiate Water Polo National Championship Tournament appearance and was also named Player of the Year. J.R. has officiated high school and college for many years and has helped coach various club teams along the way. J.R. will helping with the Age Group and High School teams with Great Lakes Aquatics.