Mark Johnson is in his first year coaching cross country at Enid High School. Johnson, a native of Enid, previously coached cross country at Crossings Christian from 2016-2018 and last year coached distance track in his first year teaching at EHS. The Johnson family is very involved with all aspects of Enid High School activities.

“I teach alongside my brother Matthew, my mother is the HR Director for EPS, and my father drives a bus for EPS after teaching vocal music for over 30 years,” Johnson said.

As a lifelong sports fanatic, it was only natural that Johnson would get into coaching.

“I grew up playing every sport under the sun,” Johnson said. “I really fell in love with running during and after college. One of my greatest loves in life is helping others progress in life, whether that is in character, mentally, or physically. Coaching XC is a constant joy for me!”

As a leader of student athletes Johnson has few messages he tries to share with everyone in his programs: “Humility comes before honor; Use your words to speak life towards one another; To be great as a team we must serve one another.”

In his first year after taking charge of the cross country team Johnson is proud of how his team has performed thus far.

“Our girls have been gradually getting faster and have been able to remain healthy,” Johnson said. “Camry Carmichael has been one of the biggest surprises this year and took three minutes off her 5K time. Another surprise has been Katie Hoskinson. Cross country is the first sport she has played in high school. She has put countless miles on her legs for the first time ever and is loving it!”

When Johnson isn’t busy in the classroom or coaching after school he enjoys spending time with friends and family.

“My God, wife, and daughter are my greatest joys in life. I love spending time with my girls, whether that is going on a walk or playing in a baby playpen,” Johnson said.”