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NPF Akron Racers

Kristin Johnson Named Impact Honoree

March 31, 2016 - National Pro Fastpitch (NPF)
Akron Racers News Release


Akron Racers Shortstop Kristin Johnson
Akron Racers Shortstop Kristin Johnson
(Akron Racers)

AKRON, OH - The Akron Racers announced today that former University of Iowa's Two-Time All-American shortstop, Kristin Johnson has been named the eighth Racers IMPACT honoree. As a part of the Akron Racers 15th Season of Play celebration, the Racers are unveiling the 30 players who have had a profound impact on the history of the NPF's oldest existing professional fastpitch franchise.

"Kristin Johnson had an incredible four-year reign as the Racers shortstop," explained GM, Joey Arrietta. "Kristin was just flat out outstanding in her role as a leader on and off the field. She led by example and set the bar pretty high."

Kristin Johnson was a fixture for the Racers at shortstop from 2004-07, helping the team to the NPF Cowles Cup Championship in 2005. Johnson was named an NPF East All-Star, after hitting .324, stealing a team-high 14 bases, tying a team-high with 12 doubles, scoring 45 runs and playing outstanding defense, accounting for more than three outs per game in 2005.

Johnson's 45 runs scored tied her for sixth all-time in NPF history for runs in a single season. Her 12 doubles ties her for 11th all-time in league history. Johnson was a career .242 hitter, her 138 hits ranks fifth in Racers franchise history. Johnson's 24 stolen bases ranks sixth in team history as well. Her 98 runs scored is fourth on the Racers all-time leader board. Johnson's 27 doubles is second behind Iyhia McMichael's 32 career doubles. Her four triples ties her for second place on the Racers' all-time list.

For as good as Johnson's numbers appear on paper it is hard to quantitate the quality and true impact of her career in Akron. The heart and consistency with which she played and the stabilizing force she provided as a core member of the Racers when the team returned to the diamond in 2004 cannot accurately be measured. The fact that she is just one of 10 players to play four consecutive years provided a measure of reliability to do her job that has not been easily duplicated.

Johnson was exactly the type of player every good team, championship team, needs to have. A multi-skilled and selfless player capable of coming through in any spot with exactly what her team needs on that particular day for a winning play, is an immeasurable asset to a team that personifies clichés like "X-factor" or "clutch player". Johnson's ability to fill in that role makes her a player of great impact on the Racers franchise and one that won't be forgotten as a great player and teammate.

Johnson and the other 29 IMPACT honorees will be recognized this summer, culminating in a weekend-long celebration July 15-17 when the Racers welcome the Dallas Charge to Firestone Stadium for a three-game series. The Racers will welcome back many of their former players to celebrate the history of the franchise, culminating in the pre-game presentation of the 30 IMPACT honorees on July 16th. Each honoree will receive a special commemorative jersey bearing their name and number.

2016 Akron Racers IMPACT Honorees (to date)

1. Carla Brookbank Schaal

2. Crystl Bustos

3. Amy Kyler

4. Sarah Dawson

5. Nicole Odom Reis

6. Tobin Echo-Hawk

7. Kellyn Tate

8. Kristin Johnson




Images from this story

Akron Racers Shortstop Kristin Johnson
Akron Racers Shortstop Kristin Johnson
   



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