Dexter's own Glen Johnson continued to make his hometown proud with his pursuit, and dedication, of a dream. Dexter's story of 'David and Goliath' continues as Johnson plays among the giants of football on the defensive line. Be aware: he comes equipped with inner strength and a spiritual heart that has allowed him to reach great levels in the sport.

Johnson was very excited coming out of spring practices as he felt he had earned the starting role for the Southwest Baptist University Bearcats at defensive end. He remained in Bolivar for the summer, increasing his dedication in the weight room and to the running program. He entered fall practices in what he felt to be "the greatest shape of his life" and ready for the 2011 football season.

However, things would not be that easy in 2011 for Glen Johnson as he still had battles to fight and victories to win. Listed number 2 on the depth chart, defensive line coach Tracy Hayworth encouraged Johnson that "he should always be ready to be in the game".

The season opener saw SBU traveling to Bacone College in Muskogee, Okla., where SBU defeated Bacone by a score of 28-19. This is one of the first season-opening victories SBU has earned in recent history.

Johnson saw significant playing time in the game against Bacone College. He was able to record his first sack on the Bacone quarterback, as well as several tackles during the game.

Johnson reported that the team had a slow start but made adjustments to come from a two touchdown deficit in the second half to gain the victory. In his humble way, Johnson shared that he "had a pretty good game and received several positive comments from his coaches." However, he further noted that "there were a few plays he felt he could have improved upon."

If the report could end with Football Only, those that know Glen Johnson know that there is a far greater, as famed radio announcer Paul Harvey put it, "The Rest of the Story" that surrounds this young man's life.

Johnson is also the huddle leader for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes on the campus of Southwest Baptist University. Most recently, Johnson has reported that through the efforts of a strong leadership team (including himself that he modestly leaves out), the FCA has increased their numbers to well over 125 participants at the weekly campus meetings.

We have a lot of good young men that leave this community. Some athletes are incredibly talented and can make their way into the college ranks on pure size and ability. Glen Johnson has done it the hard way - he's met the challenge head-on with passion, hard work and perseverance.

He had a dream of being a college football player. He has often stated that "he really didn't know what it took to accomplish his goal." Nonetheless, he has done it and continually makes all those that know and love him very proud.

If you would like to send a note to Glen Johnson, the SMT staff would ask you to fill up his email box with positive words of encouragement of how proud we are of him. You can email Glen at glensbu@gmail.com.

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