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Athlete of the Week

Johnson is Tigers’ go-to guy

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Name: Ben Johnson

School: Hollidaysburg

Age: 17

Grade: Senior

Sport: Tennis

Athlete of the week achievement: Johnson picked up wins at No. 1 singles in victories over Altoona, Tyrone, Somerset and Bedford. Hollidaysburg clinched the Laurel Highlands Athletic Conference East's regular-season title and the top seed for the LHAC playoffs.

Season update: Hollidaysburg improved to 15-0. Johnson is 11-1 at No. 1 singles on the season.

Coach Brian Denis' quote: "After graduating four of our best players last year, Ben has emerged to lead a young team with his outstanding play and great leadership qualities. He is a tireless worker, on and off the court, and a stellar role model for our younger players. He had an amazing week with wins over several of the best players our area has to offer."

Favorite teacher: Mrs. Cyran

Favorite subject: Physics

Favorite movie: "The Martian"

Favorite food: Pizza

Favorite song: "Now and Then" by the Beatles

Outside interests: Soccer, chess and programming

Favorite professional team: Golden State Warriors

Favorite college team: Michigan State

Pro athlete most admired: Rafael Nadal

Best athlete I ever competed against: Central Mountain's David Lindsay

Most influential person on my athletic career: "My dad, who has always been at practices and games to give me advice and encourage me to get better."

Proudest athletic achievement: "Clinching the win at No. 1 singles to win 5-0 in my last regular-season rivalry match against Altoona."

How I got my start in tennis: Golden Tigers Tennis Camp during elementary school summers

Future goal: Study astrophysics at Penn State University

Starting at /week.