Two years ago Johnny Wilder got his chance to shine when he was asked to play football in his first game as an eighth grader at Central Junior High.

“It felt so amazing! I was so happy and ready to play. I almost cried with happiness,” said the junior safety.

Since the eighth grade, Wilder is starting his fourth season as a football player. He job is to protect the pass coverage towards the middle and the sidelines of the field. While playing defense as a sophomore, Wilder’s most memorable moment was when he tackled a six foot running back and the crowd went crazy with excitement.

This is only one of the reasons Johnny loves the game of football.

Wilder has many challenges and obstacles to overcome, but he does it with enthusiasm and to prove to everyone that anything is possible.

“Playing football relieves stress, allows me to spend time with friends, and makes me feel good inside when the people cheer,” he said.

“He may not be the biggest or fastest person on the team, but he has the most heart,” said senior Chad Ramey.

Ramey and other players offer encouragment and appreciate his contribution to the team.

“He sets a standard for no excuses,” Ramey said. “When us older guys start to think for an excuse to get out of running or a hard drill, we can look at Johnny. He’s doing it to the best of his ability, so it makes us work even harder.”

Those who have pushed him to work hard are also probably his biggest fans, his parents Kathy and Terry Wilder. They attend and cheer at every game.

“My parents are very supportive, and it makes me feel good when they are there to support me,” said Wilder.

Wilder has many fans, and Coach Patrick Scott is number one on his list. Johnny admires Coach Scott because of how he treats the players and teaches them to be winners both on the field and in life.

“He’s an extremely hard worker. You can always count on him for 100 percent effort,” said Coach Scott, who’s known Wilder throughout his football career.

Wilder teaches us all to never give up and that anything is possible with belief, courage, and dedication.

“Johnny brings a whole new level of heart to this team,” Ramey said. “He’s a great kid with a huge heart and is a big asset to this team.”