Hall of Fame
John Flaherty was a member of the Flyer wrestling team from 1970-1974. During his four years, Flaherty established himself as one of the finest wrestlers in Lewis history.
Flaherty compiled a 78-43 career record and ranks in the top two all-time in four Flyer career statistical categories. He ended his career second in pins (42), escapes (48), near falls (29) and reversals (49), while ranking third in takedowns (77). Flaherty advanced to the NAIA District 20 Title match at 142 pounds once and 150 pounds twice, winning the district title at 142 in 1971. After advancing to the District 20 Title match at 150 pounds in 1973 and 1974 as team captain, Flaherty also advanced to the NAIA National Tournament.
Flaherty graduated from Lewis with honors after qualifying for the Dean’s List every semester. He received his Master’s Degree in taxation from DePaul University in 1977 and joined the accounting firm of Ernst & Whinney.
In 1981, Flaherty joined the accounting firm of Coopers & Lybrand. In 1984 when he ws 31, Flaherty was made a partner of the firm. In 1987, he was named tax partner in charge of Coopers & Lybrand’s Board of Trade Office in Chicago. Flaherty is recognized as one of the nation’s leading authorities on taxation of commodities and securities transactions.
John and his wife, Katherine, reside in Riverside, Illinois, with their four sons.
