Rayshawn Johnson, a state champion hurdler for Willingboro High, has joined Pepperdine’s coaching staff, the Malibu, Calif., school announced this week.
Johnson will coach sprints and hurdles at the NCAA Division 1 school.
Johnson won the 55-meter hurdles at the 2018 state Group 1 meet at the Bubble in Toms River in 7.91 and was South Jersey Group 2 champ in the 110-meter highs that spring with a 14.68. He also ran 56.69 in the intermediates.
He began his college track career at St. Peter’s University in Jersey City and was a multiple medalist at the Metro Atlantic Championships in the 110 highs.
After transferring to Liberty following the 2021 outdoor season, he ran 14.67 over the 42-inch highs for the Flames.
Johnson earned his master’s degree in coaching and athletic administration this past spring at Liberty and served as a volunteer assistant while he was still competing. He was also very active in community service and earned Conference USA’s Spring Spirit of Service Award for volunteering at a local school and working with 2nd-graders on reading.
From the Backstretch by Reuben Frank 