John Nielsen is a 6-foot-3, 200-pound quarterback from Mira Mesa High School. He was Eastern League Most Valuable Player, first-team All-Eastern League, second-team All-CIF, and his team's Most Valuable Player. He received two letters in varsity football and one letter in basketball. His coach, Gary Blevins, said “John never had an 'off season.' His positive attitude and willingness to work hard is evident to all. The words that describe John are caring, considerate, well balanced, sincere and honest.”
With a 3.6 grade point average, Nielsen was named to the San Diego Union-Tribune All-Academic Team in both football and basketball. He received honors in geometry for the Golden State Exam. He is undecided as to the college he plans to attend. Nielsen lists camping and fishing as his hobbies. He is the son of George and Mary Nielsen of San Diego.