Star forward leading VCU men’s soccer by example

Neil Raetz
Staff Writer

There’s an old inspirational quote many will hear in sports: “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”

But what happens when talent meets hard work?

The outcome may look something like the Rams’ junior striker, Jason Johnson. JJ, as many call him, has been a vital piece in the success of an undefeated, 4-0-2 squad that continues to show improvement every game.

With five goals in the first six contests thus far, Johnson has jumped out of the gates with a great start leading a relentless attack from the Rams. There are so many weapons on this year’s team that it could be hard to find a weak link, but Johnson has managed to work his way into that lead role again.

Johnson’s success doesn’t come with much surprise though.

An All-CAA second team selection last year, he lead the Rams with 23 points on 11 goals and one assist in just his second year. Last season, the Rams finished with an 11-9 record in a season in which many would have liked to see something a little more successful. But with a reloaded squad and plenty of off-season work, the Rams are shaping up to be more like the team they want, and will look to contend for a College Cup title.

With loads of talent and athleticism behind him, Johnson and the Rams’ six game unbeaten start to the season is the first since the 1997 campaign. One complement on the front line that many may mistake for Johnson with resembling looks on the field and style of play is that of sophomore Kharlton Belmar.

Belmar, though, is quick to give credit to Johnson.

“Sometimes you watch in amazement, just wondering what he will do next,” he said.

Johnson notched his fifth goal of the season Friday night when the Rams picked up a huge 2-1 win down at Florida Gulf Coast. After a short-lived celebration of the win relaxing on the beach, the Rams get back to work and look to improve on this season’s success against a very talented and familiar CAA foe, James Madison.

JMU just came off of a huge 1-0 win against reigning National Champion and current No. 1-ranked North Carolina. The Rams will head west to face off with the Dukes for a 7 p.m. showdown Tuesday night.