A native of Little Falls, Jack Alofs followed in the footsteps of his father, who taught physical education and coached basketball in St. Johnsville and Gloversville.

After graduating from Gloversville High School in 1953, Alofs continued playing basketball and baseball at St. Lawrence University until his graduation in 1957.

He returned to St. Johnsville Central School for a six-year stint as basketball and baseball coach, followed by a similar term at Spencerport, N. Y., where he led the basketball team to its first-ever sectional title.

In 1971, Alofs was named the first men's basketball coach at Herkimer County Community College. He compiled a record of 391 wins- 155 losses in 20 years. In 1987, 1988, 1989, and 1991, his teams won the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region III basketball championships. He capped off his final season, in 1991, by winning the NJCAA national title.

His 1987 team set a school record for most wins with 32. It was the only non-scholarship team to qualify for the nationals, and finished fourth. Herkimer guard Jimmy Smith, the leading scorer and second leading rebounder in the national tournament, was named the most valuable player. For eight years between 1984 and 1991, Alofs' teams averaged 25 wins a season.

He coached four Region III Players of the Year and eight junior college all-Americans. The Generals in 1990 led the nation in scoring average with 107.4 points per game.

Alofs was named New York State Junior College Basketball Coach of the Year in 1987 and 1991.

He was soccer official and a baseball umpire for 15 years at the high school and college level.