PRAIRIE | FRANKIE SANCHEZ

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From the Four Corners area in Colorado to the Panhandle of Texas, senior outside hitter Natalie Johnson’s volleyball career has come a long way.

The Cortez, Colo., native began her volleyball career in the fifth grade. At an age where most kids figure out their likes and dislikes, Johnson dug her hands into sports. “I was the kid that always wanted to be doing something,” Johnson said. “I didn’t really know anything about volleyball, but it was a sport, so I was interested.

As Johnson progressed through school, her high school coach seemed to provide the most inspiration to continue to build her skills on the court.

“Her love of the game pushed me to love it more,” Johnson said. “She was super dedicated and had a good program. That’s where I learned to love the game.”

During her senior year of high school, Johnson was selected to the Southwest League’s first team and was honored as an Academic State Champion. From that point, Johnson was able to expand her volleyball career by bringing her talent to WTAMU.

“I chose WT because I wanted to play for a successful program,” Johnson said. “I didn’t want to stay in state, and Texas was close enough that my family could still make it to games.”

Since her arrival, Johnson has provided a solid performance in the outside hitter position. She is currently averaging 2.27 kills per set with a .224 hitting percentage.

As a senior, Johnson has been making moves in the WT career record books and is currently ninth overall in career kills with 1,380.

While compiling those numbers, Johnson has been a Lone Star Conference honorable mention, conference all-academics team player, made the LSC all-conference second team, Southwest Regional all-tournament team, has been a second team all-LSC performer and the Southwest Region freshman of the year.

“The biggest honor has been the chance to play here at WT,” Johnson said. “Not very many people get the chance to be a Lady Buff or make it four years. I feel honored to have played here.”

Johnson only has five more regular-season matches as a Lady Buff, including four on the road. Their final home game will be November 5 at 7 p.m. against the Eastern New Mexico Lady Zias at The Box.

Though she has given her all to WT over the past four years, Johnson will have plenty to do after her career. When Johnson isn’t busy studying or practicing now, she spends her spare time soaking in some of the more endearing things in life.

“I love people and being around people,” Johnson said. “Laughing is one of my favorite things to do.”

As a Colorado native, Johnson said she has developed a variety of hobbies.

“Every time I go home I try to take advantage of the area,” Johnson said. “Camping, hiking, boating, four-wheeling, snowmobiling, snowboarding, bonfires; I love it all.”

Johnson has also dedicated her summers to working for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes

“FCA has been my heart and passion here at WT,” Johnson said. “I love God more than anything. I’ve had an incredible opportunity to be part of such a neat ministry.”

Johnson’s faith has not only made an impact in FCA, but she seems to have demonstrated it to her teammates.

“She has an incredible relationship with the Lord,” sophomore middle blocker Lauren Purdy said. “Her ability to talk about it really makes people comfortable. They know they can go to her on and off of the court.”

Johnson’s attitude and optimism also seem to have a positive effect on other players.

“Her work ethic really sets a good example for the younger kids,” Purdy said. “If we’re hitting a low spot she’s always there to lift you up.”

So, with the season winding down, Johnson must determine what comes next – a process that’s still ongoing. But her faith and love for sports will remain untarnished after her days as a Lady Buff are gone.

“I’m not exactly sure,” Johnson said of her future plans. “Ultimately I would love to start an FCA camp in Colorado, and I will be getting married on May 22.”