Northern Vision Care Youth Athlete of the Month: Makayla Johnston

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — March’s Northern Vision Care Athlete of the Month says she feels honoured to be selected, noting the many talented and deserving athletes in Fort St. John.

MaKayla Johnston’s humble response to being selected gives weight to what was said by the individual who nominated her.

“She has a team player attitude, leadership and remarkable serving skills. She is best known as a friend to everyone and a super coachable kid.” read the nomination.

Makayla fell in love with volleyball in grade 7 after her dad convinced her to try out for the Dr. Kearney School team. After that, she instantly fell in love with the sport.

The grade 9 student says her favourite part of the sport is the need for strong teamwork and communication.

Outside of the positive attitude and leadership she brings to the court, she says her serve is the strongest part of her game.

” I’ve worked hard on perfecting it, and it’s all about muscle memory and routine.”

Makayla just recently made the Dawson Creek Volleyball Club’s U15 Dynamite team after spending a season with the Northern BC Volleyball Club, also known as Fort St. John ICE.

She attributes wanting new opportunities and meeting new people as part of the decision to try out for a different club. So far, Makayla’s new team has seemingly reignited a fire in her.

“My coach and my teammates really pushed me and helped me find my confidence on the court,” said Makayla.

She says making the Dawson Creek team is one of her biggest achievements in the sport to date, along with winning bronze at provincials in Edmonton last year with ICE.

Makayla says she doesn’t know where volleyball will take her in the future, but she plans on trying out for the North Peace Secondary School team next year.

When she is not in school or playing volleyball, Makayla enjoys hanging out with friends and camping. She also has a three-year-old brother, who is already following in her footsteps.

“He comes to all of my games and cheers me on, which is pretty special,” said Makayla, noting that he already has a pretty good overhand serve.

Congratulations to Makayla Johnston for being named the Northern Vision Care Youth Athlete of the Month for March.

If the athlete you nominated didn’t win this month, keep nominating! The votes carry over, so keep submitting your picks for the Northern Vision Care Youth Athlete of the Month!