Countryside defensive back Mike Johnson had a special guest for his signing ceremony: Tampa Bay Buccaneer Leonard Johnson, a former standout for Largo and Iowa State.
Turns out, the two (no relation) were neighbors growing up. Mike decided to follow Leonard’s path and became a Cyclone when he signed his letter of intent.
“Mike gave a call and asked me if I would attend,” Leonard said. “I told I would. We’ve known each other for awhile and I have to support a fellow Iowa State player.”
Mike Johnson was among five Countryside athletes who signed with colleges in the school’s auditorium. The other signees included defensive tackle Steven Czop (Winona State), golfer Madison Glennie (Drake), soccer star Rachel Preble (Maine) and baseball pitcher Charlie Skantze (Iowa Lakes Community College).
“It was an incredible experience to have this day,” Mike said. “It was made even better when Leonard showed up.”
Four softball players – Brittany Creamer (Saint Leo), Erin Jankiewicz (Southeatsern), Summer Pollard (St. Leo) and Samantha Sharpe (Eckerd) – signed during a separate ceremony in the afternoon.