Frank Johnson has been involved in sports his whole life, from a student athlete in high school to becoming a sports officiant.
Johnson was born and raised in Todd County and has been in and around the area his whole life.
He was heavily involved in sports during his time at Todd Central and in college. After college, Johnson returned to Todd County and began his officiating career in TCCHS sports in order to give back to something he loves.
He says he’s worked 30 years in basketball, 20 years in baseball and 15 years in softball and football.
There is currently a shortage of sports officiants, and Johnson says he would encourage people to step up and help, but he also looks at the mistreatment they can sometimes go through from parents and other sports fans.
click to download audioHe notes part of officiating is being paid to be professional. Johnson’s commitment to giving back to the community reflects a tradition of leadership and contributions that Black History Month seeks to honor.
To Johnson, Black History Month means looking back through all that has transpired to the present day.
click to download audioThen, moving forward.
click to download audioLooking ahead, he notes the many Black contributions to athletics, the arts and eventually, the first African American president. Jonhson poses the question as to when people will stop looking at skin color, and instead look at what African Americans have contributed throughout history?
click to download audioJohnson says he’s never asked for a whole lot, just his fair share – a job where he can support his children, his family and be productive in the community. He says he doesn’t need anyone to give him anything, just the opportunity. He can do the rest.
click to download audioWEKT recently recorded Community Broadcasts for Black History Month, highlighting the people who are making an impact in the Todd County community. Follow along to hear their stories on the WEKT website.
