Former Nansemond River High School track and field standout Brandee’ Johnson liked her progression in her second year at the University of Florida.

After an OK freshman season by her standards, Johnson was satisfied with what she was able to do in her sophomore season. She led off Florida’s bronze medal winning and school record-breaking 4×400 indoor relay team at the NCAA Indoor Championships. Johnson also took bronze in the 400-meter hurdles in the Southeastern Conference Outdoor Championships. She was named All-American by the USA Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association.

“I felt very happy and confident about my season this year both indoor and outdoor,” Johnson said. “I found strength and improved my season mentally, physically and spiritually, and I ended my season excited for what the future holds.”

From her freshman to her sophomore season, she felt an increase in her faith, belief, comfort, joy and passion. She had her ups and downs within her sophomore season but didn’t let those obstacles sidetrack her.

“This season meant the most to me so far, because I have seen myself grow a lot more than I think I believe I ever have.”

The experience and challenges she comes across at Florida have made her experience worth it. Her primary goal was to go into her sophomore season and improve her strength, and she felt like she did that. Her newfound strength has made her excited to showcase it next season.

Outdoor regionals in Tampa and the indoor nationals were some of Johnson’s favorite moments from this season. At the outdoor regionals, she felt like she shocked herself. She was a part of a Florida women’s team that won the SEC. With her junior season coming up, Johnson has already given thought to what she wants to accomplish that year.

“My goal is to have fun with what I love to do,” Johnson said. “As long as I do that, everything will happen in God’s timing.”

At Nansemond River, Johnson was an All-American, state champion and the 2016 Virginia Gatorade Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year.