Abby Johnson
Ankeny, Iowa
Class of 2025
Why did you chose Central?
I chose Central because I knew it was somewhere I could succeed both academically and athletically. When making my decision, so many people had great things to say about Central and how strong it was academically. You add to that Coach Lonning and it was a done deal.
Favorite professor and why?
All of my professors have been great, but my favorite is Katelin Valster. She is my anatomy and physiology teacher. I love her class and the way she teaches. She is very supportive of her students and is focused on helping you succeed.
You’re majoring in kinesiology because?
I have torn my ACL twice. Both times I worked with some amazing physical therapists who inspired me to pursue that career path.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
Besides basketball I am involved in FCA. I love it because it makes me slow down and helps me take a break from everything going on. I have connected with so many amazing people and have listened to so eye opening stories.
Who are your go-to musical artists?
I love country music. My favorite two artists are Garth Brooks and Luke Combs.
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
By attending Central I have been able to get connected with a ton of people and have been provided with many different opportunities to succeed. Playing a sport has taught me many important lessons and has introduced me to tons of amazing people.
What are your pet peeves?
A few of my pet peeves are when people chew with their mouth open, people who drive slowly in the fast lane, and when people don’t try their best.
Most embarrassing moment?
I had to ask my family for help on this one. My sisters managed to humble me by coming up with a list. The top two, in their opinion, were when I tried to catch a knife at the dinner table and when I was little and got my tongue stuck to the lamp post in the front yard during winter.
Are you more likely to be listening to podcasts or music?
Music 100%. I don’t listen to podcasts unless someone sends me one or I have to listen to one for an assignment.
Favorite professional basketball player?
If we are talking current players, Klay Thompson. If we are talking all time, Larry Bird.
Favorite TV Show
My favorite show is Criminal Minds. I am currently watching How to Get Away With Murder because some of my teammates recommended it and that’s pretty good too.
What’s it like to play for Coach Lonning?
Coach Lonning has so much energy and it is amazing. It’s impossible not to match it. She makes you want to do your best every time you step on the court, but my favorite thing about Coach Lonning is how much she cares for us players as people. She cares about making us better both on and off the court.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central basketball?
My teammates 100%! They are all amazing people, and I am so grateful to have the opportunity to play with them!
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
10 years from now I hope to be done with my doctorate program and working as a physical therapist somewhere.
Favorite food from Central Market
That’s tough. I don’t have a great answer for this, so I’ll go with the safe option and choose fresh cookie Tuesday.
Bucket list
There are a few things I can think of off the top of my head: going on a tour of Europe, studying abroad, and petting an elephant.
