When senior David Johnson ’27 stepped off the field for the last time, it wasn’t just the end of a game, it was the end of a chapter he’d poured his heart into. 

As a two-sport athlete at Stevenson High School, wide receiver in football and catcher in baseball, Johnson spent three years building memories, pushing limits, and shaping his identity through sports.  

Now preparing to attend Virginia Tech and pursue a career in the Marines, Johnson reflects on the moments that made it all worth it. 

“I’ll miss it, you know, just being with the team, being part of something so much bigger than yourself,” Johnson said. “My favorite part was senior night, when we were in the auditorium giving our speeches before the last regular-season game. It was surreal, I had finally made it.” 

Balancing two demanding sports with academics is no small feat, especially when the grind includes long practices, summer workouts and little rest. But for Johnson, the challenge was part of the reward. 

“The hardest thing I’ve had to do for football was definitely the two-a-day practices,” Johnson said. We’d get there at 12:45 and stay until 7. Those were awful. I know it might sound crazy, but I’ll miss the practices too. Maybe not the two-a-days, though.” 

Johnson’s dedication didn’t go unnoticed by his coach, Justin Newcomb, who praised his selfless leadership.  

“You know, some guys work to be the best player on the team. David worked to be the best player for the team, and that’s what separated him,” Newcomb said. “Incredible work ethic, incredible heart. He cared deeply about his teammates, and that’s what I’ll always remember about coaching him.”