By Ken Hansard

          Andover High senior Cate Johnson, an outside back for the Trojans soccer team, has encountered a great deal of success over the course of her soccer career, and now she is looking to cap off her senior season with an exclamation point. 

          Last season, Andover finished 15-3 overall, eventually losing to Maize in the regional final.  The Trojans have had a promising beginning to the current season.  With a record of 5-1-0, they are currently ranked in the top five of Kansas 5A schools.  Johnson believes this year’s club has a chance to advance even farther, “I think we have a good chance at winning regionals this year and advancing to sub-state.” 

          Johnson was named First-Team All-League (AVCTL Div. II) last season. Johnson also plays club soccer in the off-season.  Last summer, her team won the USYS National President’s Cup. Johnson credits that success to much of her growth: “Winning at that level required sacrifice and consistency.”

          Cate also knows she has a responsibility to pass on Andover’s winning culture to her teammates. “As one of the team captains, I believe my role is to help the other players be successful in their positions. I, and the other team captains, try to provide specific strategy and positioning guidance on the field. We also provide a fun but hard-working environment to show others that there is a good balance between training and enjoyment.”  

          Johnson is also an active member of National Honor Society, serves on Andover’s Principal Council, is a member of the Trojans’ Blue Crew, and is active in several local youth groups. Cate is on track to graduate with 24 credits from Butler Community College, while carrying a 4.0, placing her on BCCC’s Honor Roll.           Johnson’s plans for the future are to continue to play soccer recreationally and to attend Kansas State University for nursing