For Ketchum senior Keegan Johnston, confidence, preparation and leadership will be central as he takes the field for his final varsity football season.
Johnston plays quarterback and strong safety for the Warriors, embracing the responsibility that comes with helping guide the team through every situation. After gaining valuable experience during his first full season as the starting quarterback a year ago, he enters this fall determined to turn past adversity into progress.
“I am currently playing quarterback and strong safety. I enjoy getting to play a sport that I love with my buddies and having the role to lead the team through highs and lows. Last year was my first full year starting at quarterback and I feel like the rough times that I would have last season prepared me for what is in store for me this upcoming season. We came up short last season, so that ultimately means that we needed to work harder in the offseason in order to be successful the next year, whether that’s consistently throwing routes, lifting, and conditioning. Whatever it takes, I’m here to do it in order to get to the end goal.”
Johnston identifies speed and elusiveness as strengths in his game, while also aiming to become steadier when the game’s pressure rises.
“I would say my strong suit is my speed and ability to get away from defenders effectively. This year I’m going to really focus on being calmer in stressful situations to keep things rolling smooth on rough surfaces.”
He also has a personal connection to the Warrior defense. Johnston’s younger brother, a freshman middle linebacker, has made an early impression through his effort and fearlessness.
Away from the field, Johnston has ambitious academic goals. He hopes to continue playing sports while pursuing a bachelor’s degree before attending medical school and earning his doctorate.
