John has led by example punishing himself on the pitch on a Saturday afternoon while still running his demanding building business. On many match days he has been on site at 8.00 doing half a days work before playing in the afternoon.
He's told the new management team that he doesn't think he can continue next season but, unusually, his family are apparently telling him that he should continue playing.
More than anyone else they know how much rugby has meant to John - nobody could have been more proud to play for West in the top league against the likes of Bath and Leicester than he was.
If both Painter and Bennett decide to give it another season after a summer's rest it will be a major bonus for the new management team.
But, preparations for next season are already under way, and Bank Holiday Monday was spent talking to Tim and Davy about next season.
Keith says: "We are delighed that Tim has agreed to be captain. We feel that he will revel in being given more responsibility."
It's also a recognition for Davy Tighe who has stuck to his game and never lost his enthusiasm as West have tumbled down the leagues.