Ennis Sophomore Shines at Track Meet

Samantha Johnson advances to Area Meet with strong fourth-place finish.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 6:00am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the dynamic motion and energy of a high school track and field event, with a small but determined female runner at the center of the composition.A young track star's aggressive determination shines through in a colorful display of athletic prowess.Ennis Today

Ennis High School's girls track and field team had one standout performer at the recent district meet, with sophomore Samantha Johnson finishing in fourth place and advancing to the upcoming Area Meet. Coach Lonnie Redning praised Johnson's aggressive and impressive showing, despite her small stature of 5 feet tall and under 100 pounds.

Why it matters

Track and field is a major source of pride for many Texas high schools, and Ennis is no exception. Johnson's success at the district level is an encouraging sign for the Lady Lions program, which is looking to build on past achievements and develop new talent.

The details

Samantha Johnson, a sophomore on the Ennis High School girls track team, finished in fourth place at a recent district meet that combined two districts. Despite her small size of 5 feet tall and under 100 pounds, Coach Lonnie Redning described Johnson as a quite aggressive competitor who put together an impressive performance to advance to the upcoming Area Meet.

  • The district meet took place on April 17, 2026.
  • The Area Meet that Johnson qualified for is scheduled for a later date.

The players

Samantha Johnson

A sophomore on the Ennis High School girls track and field team who finished in fourth place at a recent district meet, advancing her to the Area Meet.

Lonnie Redning

The head coach of the Ennis High School girls track and field team, who praised Johnson's aggressive and impressive performance at the district meet.

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What they’re saying

“Samantha Johnson, whom he describes as quite aggressive at 5-feet-tall and under 100-pounds, finished an impressive fourth place in a meet of two districts last week.”

— Lonnie Redning, Ennis Track & Field Coach

What’s next

Johnson will compete at the Area Meet, where she will look to qualify for the Regional Meet and potentially the state championships.

The takeaway

Ennis High School's girls track program continues to develop young talent, with sophomore Samantha Johnson's strong district performance serving as an encouraging sign for the future of the Lady Lions' track and field team.