DARKE COUNTY – Among the things this week’s Daily Advocate athletes of the week have in common, one is stepping up big when in matters the most.
Whether it be in a championship meet or in overtime against a county rival, both of this week’s athletes of the weeks got it done when they need to.
This week’s Daily Advocate athletes of the week are Franklin Monroe girls golfer Haley Gray and Arcanum football player Dallas Johnson.
Gray advanced to the Ohio High School Athletic Association district tournament as a senior and shot an 82. It was the best score of any girl from Darke County in the district tournament.
“Haley has had a great senior season,” Franklin Monroe girls golf coach Scott Thayer said. “She played in several tournaments over the summer and practiced daily to ready herself for this season.”
Gray excelled at the sectional tournament, winning the tournament at Stillwater Valley Golf Club with an 18-hold round of 90 to advance to districts.
Gray also excelled in the Cross County Conference meet, winning medalist honors and being named first team all-CCC as she shot an 87 at Beechwood Golf Course.
“Haley is the type of golfer that is great to coach, motivated, hard working and a natural leader,” Thayer said. “She was always arrived early to matches to prepare for the contest. She would often stay after practice to chip and putt and took private lessons to work on specific areas of her game.”
For the season, Gray averaged a 45 per nine-hole round.
“Golf is such a mental game, and this year Haley put it all together to rise to be one of the best golfers in the area,” Thayer said. “She will be missed next year, as will all five of the seniors on the Franklin Monroe girls golf team.”
Johnson had a great game against Ansonia as he helped lead the Trojans to an overtime win.
The senior quarterback had 18 carriers for 125 yards and two touchdowns, including the game winner in overtime.
“I wish I could say I called that play, but he just took off,” Arcanum football coach TJ Powers said following the game.
Johnson was 10-for-20 passing with 139 yards and two touchdowns against Ansonia. He also converted two two-point conversion attempts.
For the season Johnson has 287 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns. He has 583 passing yards and three touchdown passes.
As a defensive back, Johnson has 10 tackles through his first six games with one tackle for a loss. He also intercepted one pass.