By Boots Gifford
The NAIA national champion Montana State-Northern Lights have added another stellar prep grappler to their ranks, announced coach David Ray.
Josh Johnson of Laguna Hill, Calif., has signed a letter of intent to wrestle for the Lights in the upcoming season.
Hell be a great addition to the team, Ray said. Hes definitely a top-notch kid.
Looking to redshirt the new Light his freshman season, Ray said Johnson will be added depth at the 133- to 141-pound positions.
Johnson has worked his way through the difficult California prep ranks under the direction of former Olympic team wrestler John Azevedo, Ray said. Hes had one of the best high school coaches in the country.
Johnson started his prep career at 13-7 his freshman season, then went 13-13 for his sophomore year. As a junior he improved to 37-23, then went 43-12 his senior year.
A two-time California state qualifier, Johnson was also second at the Junior Fila State tournament, along with several other tournament placings.
As his high school team captain, Johnson also had the most takedowns and was named the most dedicated wrestler.
He has very good technique, Ray said. Hes a hard worker, very intense. Hell make great contributions to the (practice) room. Hell bring a little different technique, which makes the other guys wrestle another style. It just makes them better.
Johnson plans to major in business at Northern. He is the son of David and Martha Johnson of Laguna Hills.
