Ridgeland student/athlete Daniel JohnsonDaniel Johnson said the decision was an easy one. His coach said turning down a once-in-a-lifetime offer says all anyone needs to know about Johnson — and his team.
The Ridgeland High School senior linebacker is a national finalist for the Wendy’s High School Heisman Award and was scheduled to fly Friday to New York to be part of the ceremony. With the trip comes the chance to meet past collegiate Heisman winners and see Saturday’s awarding of this year’s trophy.
But Johnson’s Panthers will be playing in the GHSA Class AAAA semifinals Friday night at Bowers and Painter Field against Atlanta school Marist, and while the 4.0 student has dreamed of the trip since he was named a finalist last month, he had no problem turning it down to be with his teammates.
“It was really a no-brainer,” said Johnson, whose uncle and grandfather will represent him in New York. “I mean, I have a chance to play for a state championship, lead my team and play in front of my community one more time. It’s a great honor to be invited to New York, but this is a bigger one.”
Coach Mark Mariakis wasn’t surprised by Johnson’s choice. The senior captain and three-year starter represents why, Mariakis said, this Ridgeland team is comfortable venturing into new playoff territory.