JOHNSON IN THE CIRCLE
Johnson narrowly missed qualifying for the state meet in the shot put.
Photo by Mark Guthrel
Johnson's size is enough to have some good throws. But in order to be great, he needed to work on his technique.
"It took me a year. The first year I was good because of strength, but this (past) year I've worked on strength and footwork," Johnson said. "Maybe this year I will hit my peak."
His coach is certainly expecting quite a big peak. Johnson's improvement from his sophomore year to his junior year has led his coach to believe there is plenty more potential to be had in the shot put. He also throws the discus.
"It was hard to get a 300-pound body moving across the shot put ring. A few years back he was mainly relying on strength, but one of the coaches that help us, he held the state record, John Gianini, he helped him out and finally got him to where he's using more of his body than his strength," said Rich Copenhaver, who has led Central to the last four state titles in Class 4.
Johnson was a dependable supporter of his teammatesduring the track and field season.
Photo by Mark Guthrel
"He's got size 18 feet, he's massive. But he's an awesome kid and one of the nicest kids. Never arrogant, always has a smile on his face. It's neat to be able to coach him."
Johnson said he loves the social aspect, and he can always be spotted watching his teammates, cheering them on in their respective events. He was just one spot off from qualifying for the state meet in the shot put, and all the throwers ahead of him were seniors.
Among his shot put accomplishments last season:
* Set the unofficial school record with a toss of 54 feet, 6.5 inches.
* Placed fourth in the Suburban North Conference Finals (50-2), fourth in the Class 4 District 3 finals (50-1.5) and fifth in Class 4 Section 2 finals (53-5).
* Charlie Beck Invitational shot put champion (54-6.5).
* Tossed a personal-best 140 feet, 2 inches in the discus to place fourth at the Cory Siebert Invitational.
