Swim medallist Johnson shows academic strength

A state medallist, Mark Johnson competes with Bob Jones Swim Team and Madison Swimming Association. CONTRIBUTED

MADISON – Mark Johnson, an incoming senior at Bob Jones High School, chose swimming as an avocation after attending his brothers’ swim meets.

“Swimming interests me because you can improve on something every day,” Johnson said.

At state competition, Johnson swam with the team that not only won the 200-yard medley relay but also broke a state record. “This earned my teammates and I All-American status. My freshman year, I won the team’s highest GPA. I’ve won the team Dedication Award twice,” he said.

Mike Gunner coaches Johnson at Bob Jones. Johnson also competes for Madison Swimming Association. “I’m really thankful to have such good coaches and supportive teammates that help me make it through tough practices,” Johnson said.

“My ability to be easily ‘coach-able’ is one of my strengths, as well as my swimming technique,” Johnson said. “One of my weaknesses is my height since taller swimmers need fewer strokes to cross the pool.”

He participates in National Honor Society at Bob Jones and as a youth mentor at Asbury United Methodist Church.

His older brothers, Russel and Charlie, both are graduates of Bob Jones and Auburn University. Their parents are Greg and Dr. Terri Johnson.

Q&A

Q: At what restaurants do you enjoy eating?
A: “Bruegger’s and Red Fish are my favorite places to eat,” Johnson said.

Q: What is your favorite food?
A: “My mom’s Chicken Alfredo Roll-ups.”

Q: What are your favorite sports teams?
A: Auburn Football, Carolina Panthers, Cleveland Cavaliers and St. Louis Cardinals.

Q: What’s your favorite sports memory?
A: “Winning my first state championship with Bob Jones in my sophomore year and watching the Kick Six are my two most memorable sports memories,” Johnson said.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time?
A: “Hanging out with my friends, watching TV and working out are my favorite things to do,” he said.