News

The Mount Vernon Nazarene College women's fastpitch softball team has landed one of its top recruits for the 2003 season with the addition of Stephanie Johnson.

Johnson, a shortstop from Tallmadge, Ohio, set nine school records while playing at Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy. As a senior, she batted .436 with 41 hits in 94 at bats. In 26 games, Johnson compiled nine doubles, three triples, one home run, 28 runs scored, and 24 runs batted in. She also posted a 12-6 record on the mound with a 2.62 earned run average and 117 strikeouts in 131 innings.

For her efforts, Johnson was named to the All-District First Team as both a junior and a senior. She capped her senior season off by being selected to the All-Ohio Second Team in Division III. She was also a First Team All-Conference selection and finished second in the voting for Player of the Year.

"We are excited to have Stephanie coming to join our team," said MVNC head coach Jeana Howald. "The starting spot at shortstop is open, and I know that she is going to come in and compete hard to make the job hers. She has a strong arm in the field, and she is also a very good hitter. She will definitely help to make us a better team."

In addition to playing softball, Johnson was also a four-year letterwinner in soccer. She was active in Fellowship of Christian Athletes and served as an officer for five years. She has taken missions trips to both Norway and Haiti. She was also selected to Homecoming court as both a junior and a senior.

"There are several reasons why I decided to attend MVNC," said Johnson of her college choice. "I like the small college environment and the Christian atmosphere. Playing softball was also a big factor in my decision. Plus, the college is semi-close to home."

MVNC finished the 2002 campaign with a 25-19 overall record as the Lady Cougars won 11 of their final 13 games of the season. The team also posted a 16-12 mark in the American Mideast Conference to earn a seventh-place finish. MVNC also finished in a tie for fifth-place at the National Christian College Athletic Association National Tournament out of 10 teams.