The Johnson boys soccer team was honored at the Georgia State Capitol last week.
State Rep. Derrick McCollum (R-Chestnut Mountain) authored a rare "invite resolution" to allow the 2023 Class 4A state champions and National Champion team to be recognized and honored by the Georgia House of Representatives.
Johnson Soccer Coach Frank Zamora said the team enjoyed the honor of visiting the capitol.
“It was a great experience for all of us, especially the boys to be able to go down there and get to experience the capitol while the reps were in session,” Zamora said. “Being honored at the event was a great experience for the boys for sure they enjoyed it.”
The United Soccer Coaches High School poll, the nation's preeminent prep soccer poll, proclaimed the Johnson boys the 2023 National Champions after the Knights finished off their first-ever unbeaten season (21-0) and captured their third state title after knocking off Westminster 4-2 in the Class 4A state championship match in April.
Zamora said the team's visit to the capitol was a testimony to their dedication.
“It's an amazing feeling of accomplishment, for sure,” Zamora said. “You know, it's a testament to the hard work and dedication that the young men and our program have put in for the last couple of years.”
Zamora said the visit can be a distraction but he feels it can be used as inspiration for the team.
“As coaches, we're always thinking about distractions for the current season and motivation. But I think for us it is some motivation to see that, once again, that hard work does not go unnoticed,” Zamora said “And if the boys continue to work hard and can accomplish great things this season, they can participate in and be recognized at that level again.”
The Knights opened the 2024 season ranked No. 1 and are favorites to win the title again this year.
