For the Johnson family, Owensboro High School football is more than a game. It’s a legacy more than 80 years in the making.
This Saturday night, when the Red Devils step onto Kroger Field to play Pulaski County in the Class 5A state championship, senior offensive lineman Drew Johnson will represent the latest branch of a deep-rooted tradition that stretches back to the 1940s.
“Going to play in a state championship is something my teammates and I have dreamed of our entire lives,” Drew said. “To get the chance to bring back a title to OHS is beyond exciting, and we’re all thankful for the opportunity.”
Drew’s great-grandfather, James “Peanuts” Johnson, began the family’s involvement with OHS when he was hired in 1942 as an assistant football coach, before transitioning to the head role the following year. He led the Red Devils for seven seasons before moving into administration — eventually serving as the school system’s assistant superintendent. He also helped establish junior high football programs across the district.
His son, Jerry Johnson, recalled attending games at Rash Stadium as far back as he can remember.
“We’ve had season tickets for over 80 years,” Jerry said. “I was at every home game growing up. It’s just always been part of our lives.”
Jerry later suited up for the Red Devils and earned a scholarship to play linebacker at Indiana University. He’s remained an active supporter of the program ever since.
“My dad died in 1994, but there has been a Johnson in the seat we’ve had since 1943 — right in Section D, just below the press box,” he said. “What keeps me coming back is watching high school kids play for the love of the game. They’re not getting paid. They’re not doing it for anything but passion.”
Jerry’s brother, Mike Johnson, played at OHS in the late ’60s under coach Gerald Poynter.
“Football taught me that hard work pays off,” Mike said. “The friendships I made, the memories — that’s what sticks with you.”
Mike, now 75, will be in the stands this Saturday watching his grandson Drew continue the tradition.
“You represent yourself, your teammates, your community,” Mike said. “You are special as a group. You just happen to be at Owensboro High School, and that’s something meaningful.”
The Johnson tradition also includes Drew’s father Andy, who played four years at OHS, along with several uncles and cousins — including Tyler Johnson (Class of 2000), Matt Johnson (Class of 1999), and Logan Johnson (Class of 2004).
Brothers Tyler and Logan — who were the holder and kicker, respectively — played in the 1999 state championship game alongside several other family members and childhood friends. Though that 1999 team lost to Fort Thomas Highlands, the experience left a mark.
“You grow up idolizing guys like Peanut White, Drew Hall, and the Embrys,” Tyler said. “The dream was always to get to a state championship. To actually do it with your best friends — that’s something you never forget.”
For Tyler’s and Logan’s cousin Matt, now a local dentist, the legacy of OHS goes beyond football.
“I joke with my patients — I was a Red Devil before I was even born,” Matt said. “It’s more than just football. It’s a community. It’s a family.”
Matt didn’t get to play in a title game himself, but like the rest of the Johnsons, he’ll be in the stands Saturday night, filled with pride and perspective.
“There’s a whole family of OHS behind these kids,” he said. “We didn’t all win, but we all care. Just enjoy the moment. Play for each other. You’ll remember this forever.”
And while the Johnsons are some of the more visible longtime supporters, they’re quick to acknowledge they’re not alone.
“There are plenty of families like us — the Moormans, the Currys, the Moores,” said Tyler. “We’re not the only ones. That’s what makes Owensboro football special. It’s generational.”
Even the Johnsons’ longtime neighbor, Jim Allison, plays a small role in their story. Before he passed away, he gifted the Johnsons his pair of season tickets, giving them four seats together on the 50-yard line (now the 46-yard line following a renovation) at Rash.
Drew Johnson said he’s proud to carry the torch.
“Owensboro football and family are synonymous,” he said. “It’s a special fraternity, and one that will continue to shape who I am long after I’m done playing.”
