A 1967 graduate of Deshler High School where he played football and ran track for Coach Buddy Moore, Johnny played linebacker and guard for the Tigers. Johnny made both the All-TVC and All-State Squads in 1965 as well as 1966. In addition to being a gifted football player, he was outstanding in track. He ran the 100 yard dash, was a member of the 440 relay team, threw the shot and held the state record in the discus for twenty years. He also competed in the state decathlon, finishing in the top ten.

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Following high school Johnny signed a football scholarship with Auburn University where he started at offensive guard for three years. He made the All-SEC Sophomore Team in 1968, but his career was cut 

short by a knee injury during the 1969 season. He graduated from Auburn in 1971 and now lives in Florida.

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