Despite missing several games because of a turf toe injury, University of Virginia-bound wide receiver Keeon Johnson turned in a quality senior season, helping A.L. Brown (Kannapolis, N.C.) to a 10-4 overall record and earning a trip to the annual North Carolina/South Carolina Shrine Bowl.

“I wish my senior year could’ve been better, but once I came back I felt I played the best I could,” said the 6’3″, 200-pound senior, who finished the season with 41 catches for 535 yards and five touchdowns. “Overall, I had a good time, and right now I’m feeling pretty good.”

The Shrine Bowl, which pits top players from North Carolina against top players from South Carolina, is a big deal for players in those states. For Johnson, the experience was beneficial on and off the field.

“The experience was great, especially going to the Shriner’s Hospital. That day was the highlight of the week,” Johnson said.

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