My name is Brandon Johnson, and, like many who will read this column, I am an avid local sports fan. A graduate from Great Bridge, Class of 2007, I find my interest peaked most by the Southeastern District: it runs in my blood. My father, Gary Johnson, was a three-sport athlete at Deep Creek and drafted right out of "The Creek" by the California Angels. My grandfather, William "Bill" Clark, graduated from Great Bridge, where he played basketball. My brother and other family members also graduated from The Bridge. My sister was part of the first full class to go through Grassfield, where she played volleyball and basketball. Our area is home to my family.

However, the 757 stretches further than Cedar Road and Battlefield Blvd, despite popular opinion, and my goal is to write about athletes from all over our great area. Doing so will require the help of you, the reader. Who better to nominate athletes from our area for the spotlight than the ones involved in their lives daily? Feel free to write or call me about athletes making an impact, not only on the field of competition but in the community as well.