On a Warriors squad that consists of stars at every position on the field, it can be difficult to stand out from the pack. A player must be truly sensational and clinical in their craft to make their name stand out on a team that is sitting top 10 in 6A. Junior striker Lathan Johnson is one of those special players. His clinical finishing and technical brilliance have allowed him to cement himself as the best player in the region and one of the best in Georgia. This title was proven true with his reception of the 6A region four player of the year award.
The 2024 season marked the first with the Dubs for Johnson. Before his move to Northside Drive, he was a standout at city rival Midtown high school. There he previewed his future North Atlanta success with a 4A Area five region player of the year award at Midtown in his sophomore season. In that season he set the record for goals in a season in 5A history with 15 goals. This incredible tally was possible thanks to his rare blend of height and technical ability. Johnson is one of the best finishers in the state and rarely ever wastes opportunities in front of goal. His ball control in tight spaces allows him to maintain possession in a crowded box before unleashing a shot with his powerful right boot. For North Atlanta soccer coaches, Johnson’s Arrival has meant a significant infusion of the thing that’s most needed in the sport: goals. “He’s the kind of guy who not only lights up games, but he clearly elevates our whole team,” said Warrior head coach Jack Stenger, “Lathan is beyond dangerous for those who have to defend him. In the attacking third, all he needs is an inch of space and a channel of opportunity and suddenly there’s a screaming hit going toward our opponent’s goal. It’s truly been something for all of us to behold.”
Johnson has continued his goal scoring prowess since joining the Dubs. He has scored 12 goals in just 13 games this season as the team’s star man up front. This stellar almost one goal per game place has propelled North Atlanta to a 13-2-2 record along with a region championship. It’s not just the goals he’s provided that show his impact, but his contributions in setting up teammates that has seen his game leap to another level. He has six assists on the year to couple his goal-scoring ability. His transfer to North Atlanta has seen Johnson turn into a complete player who can do anything asked of him on the pitch. “Transferring here has allowed me to focus on myself,” said Johnson, “I’m able to really take time to think and have the energy to give my all for my teammates every single day and it’s made me a way more complete player.”
As the Warriors look on to the playoffs, they will once again turn to their talisman to lead them to the promised land. Everyone surrounding the program can’t wait to see what he can do in high school and beyond. Everyone, including Johnson himself believes he can one day make it at the highest level in the sport. “He is an amazing player and an amazing teammate. Who knows how we’d be doing right now without everything he’s done this year and he absolutely deserves region player of the year,” said senior midfielder McClendon May.
