Karlie Johnson
School: Norwin
Class: Senior
Sport: Lacrosse
Claim to fame: Johnson became Norwin’s all-time leading goal scorer with 160, surpassing Ava Wilson’s mark of 159 set in 2024. Johnson, a midfielder/attacker, had 17 goals and nine assists through four games for Norwin (3-0-1). Johnson plans to continue her playing career at Division II Westminster (Utah).
What was it like breaking the record?
It was pretty surreal because we were in a really competitive game against Penn-Trafford when my teammate, Maddy Bulger, who is currently our statkeeper, told me I was one goal away from tying the record. Then just needing one goal at our next game was nerve-racking, but very exciting.
How did the record-breaking goal play out?
It was in the first few minutes in our game against Peters Township. It was the first goal of the game, and it was so exciting seeing all my teammates hype me up, and seeing my family and loved ones in the stands cheering me on.
Do you feel like you have played a part in Norwin lacrosse forming and sustaining a program?
I do think that myself, but also the entire senior class has had a huge impact on this program. We are an extremely talented class and brought so much to this team over our four years. Also, as a youth volunteer coach, I have coached so many of these underclassmen coming up through the years, so it’s so rewarding to be able to see them succeed when it feels like I was just teaching them the basics.
What do you like about Westminster? That is a long way from home.
When I first had my recruiting phone call with the coach from Westminster in the summer/fall of my junior year, I immediately knew that this was the school for me. I clicked so well with the coach and ended up going for my first visit in October. The school was so beautiful and surrounded by the mountains, which is perfect for me. I also loved that I had easy access to skiing and was close to the University of Utah, a big school where I can go to watch football games, and more.
Who or what got you started in lacrosse?
My brother started playing lacrosse in middle school, and I really enjoyed watching his games. I started playing boys lacrosse in first grade and immediately loved it and knew it was going to be my sport.
What other sports do you play?
I play field hockey in the fall.
What has it been like practicing and playing away from Norwin Knights Stadium?
It has gone fairly smoothly so far. We are playing on grass a little more than preferred, but we take what we can get. When we can get on Yough’s turf for practice, we are very thankful.
Do you miss the old stadium?
Yes, definitely. So many happy memories happened in that stadium for us as a team and for myself, so it’s unfortunate that I don’t get to experience my last high school season on my home turf.
What are some of your favorite hobbies?
I love to ski, hike, kayak, hang out with my friends and really just do anything active outside and enjoy nature.
What is your nickname?
A lot of people call me “Karl” or “Kar.” I don’t really have an interesting nickname, but I like when my friends call me Karl.
So you want to pursue a field in sports?
My ideal job would actually be a sports agent. I would love to be able to help athletes reach their goals and succeed. Whether that be as a professional, or collegiate athlete, I think being a part of that process would be very rewarding, especially as an athlete myself.
Why do you wear No. 9?
I was born on Nov. 9, and I prefer odd numbers. No particular reason for the odd numbers. I just feel more drawn to them.
What TV shows have you binge-watched?
I am currently watching “Breaking Bad,” but my all-time favorite show that I have seen nine times is “Gilmore Girls.”
What is your favorite movie?
Its hard to pick just one, but I love “Suicide Squad,” “Coraline,” “High School Musical,” and “The Batman.”
People would be surprised to know I ______.
Am scared of birds. People find this surprising because I am very into nature and have no problem touching any other animals. I just hate birds.
What would you do with a million dollars?
I would make sure I have enough saved for my college tuition and for any high education I want. Then, I would probably save most of it and invest some of it so that I have money for buying a house in the future and have money growing for my future as well. Once I have a house, I would buy a jet-ski.
What advice would you give to a young player getting into lacrosse?
Don’t be scared to go all in. Put in the time and the effort and you will see results.
Max Henson
School: Belle Vernon
Class: Senior
Sport: Tennis
Claim to fame: Henson won his second consecutive WPIAL Class 2A boys tennis title. Now he has his eye on repeating as PIAA champion.
What was it like to win another WPIAL title?
It was pretty cool. It was nice to win again, now I am focused on winning another state.
What is different about your game since last year?
I am much stronger. My dad (Jody) and I lift a lot. I am more physical.
Have you picked a college?
Yes. I am going to Cleveland State.
How old were you when you first started playing tennis?
I was probably 5 or 6. I played other sports (T-ball, soccer, Dek-hockey and basketball). But I started taking tennis seriously when I was 10 or 11.
You were playing a big tournament Saturday in Michigan and had to retire with an injury. What happened?
My lower back tightened up. It was disappointing because I was playing really well against a tough opponent.
Do you have a favorite tennis player?
I like the way Rafael Nadal plays. He is so solid and tough.
What part of your game needs improvement?
I would say my return game.
Have you met anyone famous?
No.
What is your favorite movie?
Anchorman.
What type of movies do you like?
Comedies.
What type of music do you like?
I like all kinds: reggae, R&B, rap.
Who has the best pizza in the Belle Vernon district?
Jake’s and Italian Village.
What is your favorite meal your mom makes?
I love shrimp. Shrimp tacos.
Do you have a dream vacation spot?
I would like to go to the tropics: Jamaica or Puerto Rico. I would like to go camping.
Is there any place you would like to visit that tennis has taken you?
The Monroeville Raquet Club. It was where I played one of my first tournaments.
What is your favorite class in school?
Science.
I you were to have dinner with someone special, who would it be and what would you talk about?
God. I would ask him if I was doing things right.