A Hometown Hero: Leanna Johnson

TROY, Ala. – 38 minutes. 31 miles. One family.

For ace Leanna Johnson to make it back to her hometown, it takes her just under 40 minutes to arrive back into Brantley, Ala., city limits.

Johnson has racked up accolades from the moment she stepped into the circle at Troy, and as now the Sun Belt Preseason Pitcher of the Year, it's no surprise that Johnson will hear about it back home.

"No matter where I go, someone always mentions something about what is going on with me and Troy Softball at the time. I am really appreciative of it every time. Brantley is such a supportive community, and they know their people. Anyone who leaves Brantley and goes to play sports somewhere, they always ask you about it."

After leaving Brantley to head to Troy, as most people could imagine, Johnson says there were plenty of similarities.

"The community of Brantley is like a family of friends. Being at Troy now, it is the same way. I love going around town or into a store and seeing someone I know. I love them asking about softball, school and stuff like that. It is so neat coming from such a close-knit family community like Brantley to here and having the same thing."

Even on a late night, midweek contest, the Trojans are guaranteed a fan base. Without a doubt, Johnson's family will make the 30-mile trek to Troy.

"It has always been great having my family's support. Growing up, I always knew they would support me wherever the game was. Being so close to home as my grandparents get older, it is really nice that they get to come to all of my home games. I love seeing them in the crowd."

For Johnson's family, it doesn't even matter if the ace is in the circle – they will cheer on the Trojans always.

"They want what is best for the team even when I am not playing. My family supports everyone on the team. They know each face out there, and they cheer just as loud for them as they would me. The team knows who my family is, and I think they appreciate always having someone pulling for them."

So, as we look ahead to the start of the 2022 campaign, the hometown hero will once again head into the circle knowing her hometown army is behind her and her team.

Troy University Athletics

Players Mentioned

Leanna Johnson

Related Videos