In the fall of 1993, a new student reported to football practice at Briarwood named Matt Johnson. In the brief time he played for the Lions, he demonstrated outstanding athletic ability, courage, and character. Early in that season, he was diagnosed with leukemia. Over the next several months, he battled cancer with the same determination that he played football. It was during that time that he also demonstrated his very real faith in Jesus Christ. Matt was salt and light to all he came in contact with.
On Friday night, we remembered Matt Johnson’s courage and character through the selection of Knox Merry as this year’s Matt Johnson award winner. Knox, the son of Frank and Delinda Merry, has also demonstrated great character and courage as a football player, student, and Christian leader.
Presenting this year’s Matt Johnson award trophy was Matt Johnson’s father, Gary, his daughter, Kelly, and Briarwood Hall of Fame inductee, Coach Fred Yancey. Congratulations to Knox for being selected for the award.
