- April 26, 2024
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Predominantly a catcher and corner infielder for Foundation Academy, the reigning FHSAA softball Class 2A, Region 2 champions, Kat Johnson was a key figure in the Lions’ run to the Final Four.
The junior was awarded the “Heart of a Lion” trophy last season, which goes to the player who is willing to do anything for the team. Johnson exemplified this by being willing and ready to play any position on the field when asked. That versatility helped the Lions win regionals and will be crucial to their state title hopes this season.
Beyond her success with Foundation softball in 2023, Johnson is used to winning.
Two seasons ago as a freshman, Johnson was part of the Lions team that won the district championship. As a youth softball player she was part of the Windermere Little League teams that won two Little League state championships and a Little League Southeastern Regional Championship.
Off the softball field, she currently holds a 4.0 GPA and managed also to find the time to compete on the Foundation girls weightlifting team this season — finishing third at the 2023-24 district championships.
How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?
I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be named Athlete of the Week. I have been playing softball since I was 6, and I wouldn’t be the player I am today without the amazing coaches and teammates I’ve had.
What do you like the most about softball?
My favorite thing about softball is the competitive atmosphere and the lifelong friendships I've mad.
What is your goal for this season, for yourself and the team?
My goal for myself and the team is to win states.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from softball?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned from softball is to be a goldfish. Mistakes happen, so don’t dwell on them and focus on the next play.
Who is your favorite athlete? Why?
My favorite athlete is Rafael Devers, because I grew up watching him and the Red Sox.
What is your favorite softball memory?
My favorite softball memory was making it to the final four for states with (Foundation last season).
What is your go-to pre-game meal?
Starbucks strawberry açaí refresher and egg bites.
What is your favorite subject in school? Why?
My favorite subject in school is history, because I think it’s very interesting.
What is your favorite movie?
My favorite movie is “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days.” I think the movie is perfect.
What are your favorite non-sports hobbies?
Reading and snowboarding.
If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go? Why?
I would go back to the ‘80s in high school, because I love ‘80s movies, and I think the music is amazing.
Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?
The advice I would give to my younger self would be to enjoy every moment and to never give up on your dream.
If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be?
What was your favorite memory from high school?
Who is your favorite superhero?
Thor is my favorite superhero, because I think he has the best movies from Marvel, and he’s the funniest character.
Who is your favorite supervillain?
Loki is my favorite supervillain. I think that he was just misguided and could actually have been a superhero.
If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go?
The first place I would travel to is Italy, because my great-grandma was from there, and they have really good food. The second is Spain, because I think it is a beautiful country, and there is so much culture. The third place is Sweden to see the Northern Lights.
If you could be an animal for a day, which would you be?
I would be a dolphin, because they’re smiley and bubbly, and I think I’m like that.
What is your most controversial food take?
That ketchup is never allowed on macaroni and cheese.
Sam Albuquerque is the Sports Editor for the Orange Observer. Please contact him with story ideas, results and statistics.
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Twitter: @SamBAlbuquerque
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