University of Tennessee Athletics
Former Vol Johnson to Host Youth Football Camp
June 22, 2004 | Football
June 22, 2004
What does it take to get to the next level?
Former Vols defensive back Steve Johnson knows, and so does a handful his 1998 national champion teammates. That's why they plan to share it with Tennessee's youth.
Johnson will host the inaugural Next Level Football Camp July 8-9 at Nashville's Brentwood Academy for boys entering sixth- through 12th-grade that have aspirations of taking their game to the collegiate level. Joining him will be an all-star list of performers from Tennessee's perfect season with Tee Martin, Travis Stephens, Darwin Walker, Jeff Hall and Eric Westmoreland serving as camp instructors. Former Vols from other eras that will also be instructing include Bubba Miller, Joey Kent, Ben Talley and Corey Gaines.
"I've had great response from my former teammates," says Johnson, who played at Tennessee from 1994-98 and was the starting cornerback on the Vols' 1998 national championship team that went 13-0. "Everyone that I've asked has agreed and is looking forward to preparing kids for the next level, which is college."
The camp, Johnson says, is designed to be position specific, allowing each camper to improve skill and technique. Individuals will participate in college and NFL combine drills like the 40-yard dash, "L" drill, broad jump and short shuttle. The drills and lessons will be put to use in game-like situations during the camp. For many, it will be the first time they'll get a taste of what's expected at the collegiate level and beyond.
"Campers will learn techniques to help them sharpen their skills," Johnson says. "Camp participants should come ready to drastically improve their skill level and eager to accept coaching from premier athletes.
"The typical quote for a college athlete is, 'If I would've known then what I know now, then I would've been a much better high school player.' Well, we're trying to help athletes eliminate that quote by teaching them before they get to college."
Camp instructors will also spend time working with the athletes on being able to balance school, family and football for a positive outcome, Johnson says. Additionally, there will be special guest speakers. But Johnson says he's keeping quiet about who may be there.
"That's my secret weapon," he says.
In the growing age of football camps, the Next Level Football Camp creates a unique option for youth to learn from former Tennessee players they have watched growing up. Many of the instructors have been national champions, and some have played or are still playing in the NFL.
"It's something that has not been done before," Johnson says. "There wasn't a camp available when I was young, especially one where I could learn from someone who's already attained the goals that I had set for myself."
The Next Level Football Camp costs $115 for attendance and includes a T-shirt, prizes and awards. Lunch will be provided both days, and campers from outside the Nashville area are encouraged to seek lodging at Baymont Inn and Suites in Brentwood, Johnson says. The camp will be an annual event with stops in Knoxville and Memphis next summer.
For questions or more information, contact Johnson at (615) 255-6477.
Josh Pate
