May 11, 2026 | Coach Spotlight
Please join us in congratulating Coach Johnson, who received a Community Service Award for outstanding achievements in educational development from the Charleston Alumnae Chapter Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Coach Johnson was recognized at the chapter’s May Week celebration of community impact on May 3rd.
Their program provided a thoughtful tribute to Coach Johnson’s amazing work as an educator and coach…
Lerone Johnson, Sr., a lifelong resident of the city of Charleston, is highly engaged in student activism within the local community, particularly through sports. He served for many years as a physical education teacher for Charleston County School District at Sanders Clyde Elementary School and Charleston Development Academy and as a baseball coach at Burke High School. In addition to being a student mentor, he also served on the Altar of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church starting as an altar boy and mow as a member of the Eucharistic Ministry. Mr. Johnson attributes the development of his lifelong skills to the guidance and mentorship of his grandmother and aunt, both of whom played a significant role in shaping his character. Mr. Johnson began as a volunteer at First Tee – Greater Charleston, a local 501(c)(3) serving youth throughout the Tri-County Area. In his role with First Tee, he teaches life skills to students through the game of golf, currently reaching 48 schools and after-school programs as far as Hollywood. Golf, a sport traditionally less popular among minority communities compared to football and basketball, has seen a significant rise in interest due to these initiatives. Golf cultivates essential life skills as taught by Mr. Johnson, promoting integrity, patience, and emotional regulation. The sport enhances discipline, resilience, and strategic thinking through regular practice, informed decision-making, and overcoming challenges. By requiring individuals to perform under pressure in quiet environments, golf equips students to approach adversity with composure and strength of character. Mr. Johnson’s commitment and accomplishments as a volunteer from 2008 to 2022 led to his appointment as a full-time coach in 2022. He currently serves as First Tee – Greater Charleston’s Community Outreach Director, managing school engagement and Pathfinders, First Tee’s golf and STEM immersion program.
Congratulations, Coach Johnson! Your commitment to youth and community development is truly inspiring.