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Coach Stepp with Donovan Johnson

The Alice Lloyd College Eagles Cross Country program is pleased to announce the signing of one of the mountains’ elite runners to an athletic letter of intent for the upcoming 2013-14 season.

ALC’s Director of Athletics and Cross Country Coach, Gary D. Stepp, traveled to Harlan on January 28th, and he happily returned with the fresh signature of Harlan County senior Donovan Johnson.

Johnson was one of the standouts in his region this season. He was able to lead his club to two consecutive appearances in the State Cross Country Meet. Individually, he is a two-time qualifier for the KHSAA State Tournament.  His achievements don’t end there, though. This talented young man was also selected for the All-A Area 9 State Cross Country Team and was named the “Top Senior” in Class 2A, Region 7.

The Eagles are very excited to add his name to the roster.

In response to what prompted him to choose Alice Lloyd College, Johnson said, “I liked the fact that it’s close to home, and it’s affordable. The place reminds me of home. ALC is a good school with a great reputation. And I can go there and do something that I love to do — run!”

He added, “I plan on getting a bachelor’s degree in biology. One day, I hope to be a doctor.”

Seated with Johnson are, from left, Johnson's grandfather James Middleton, father Chris Johnson, mother Jamie Johnson, brother Jeremiah Johnson, and grandmother Charlene Middleton; standing, from left, are Harlan High School Principal Bob Howard, Alice Lloyd College Coach Gary Stepp, Harlan County Cross Country Coach Ryan Vitatoe, Harlan County School District Superintendent Mike Howard, and Harlan County High School Athletic Director Freddie McCreary.

When asked about his expectations after announcing his college decision, the straight-talking Johnson replied, “I expect the College to give me everything I give it.” 

After the signing, a proud and excited Coach Stepp said, “I am very pleased to have signed Donovan Johnson to a letter of intent. He’s a very hard worker. He’s made steady improvement over the course of the season. His times have only gotten better the more he has run.  I believe that he has great potential to develop as a runner in this league.”

Stepp concluded, “He’s a good student, too. He takes his class work seriously. That’s very important to us at ALC. Donovan is a perfect fit for our school.”

Alice Lloyd is thrilled to welcome Donovan Johnson into our Eagles family!

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