As I sat in the Georgia dugout with Cole Johnson and reminisced about his game-saving catch last Sunday against Tennessee, I thought about how nice it would have been if Jimmy Dorsey’s rendition of his 1957 hit, “So Rare,” had been the musical backdrop to the glorious scene that brought about tumult and shouting for Bulldog Nation.
Defense should never be slighted. Just as beautiful as a long ball soaring over the trees surrounding the outfield fences of Foley to bring closure for the home team, you’ll never see a more athletic and emotionally uplifting performance than Cole’s catch.
It should forever be known as “The Catch.”
Cole’s feat will resonate with enduring affection, serving as a reminder that in competition, we swoon the hardest and loudest for heroes who gain recognition on offense, such as grand slam homers in late innings or timely hits that bring home game-winning runs.
In a brief conversation, I gathered illuminating insights into Cole’s makeup, concluding that his laid-back, measured approach means his emotional temperature is never too high, never too low. He is studied and resolute.
Cole Johnson is the All-American boy, imbued with a sense of place and maturity as an accomplice. Not the type to expect such things as “The Catch” on every outing, it still didn’t come as a surprise to his accomplished parents, Michael, a lawyer in town, and Elizabeth, a highly regarded physician. First of all, they are just happy that Cole is a good kid who exemplifies the training that should lead to a bright future.
There was discipline growing up. Cole was taught responsibility and had a few rules for his daily lifestyle that led to enviable comportment. For Cole, everything is taken in stride. If there was a big game at Sanford Stadium, he was there. Same with basketball, baseball, and other Bulldogs’ sporting events. This delightful smorgasbord of opportunity brought about feelings of thanksgiving for Cole. He knows not every kid had it so good.
He never wanted to matriculate anywhere else. Georgia was always on his mind. Like the rest of the world, he does not know where the road of life will take him, but for now, he likes what has come his way. He is not without deep and abiding gratefulness. He has always aspired to be a Dawg, and now that he has entered Bulldog Valhalla, he won’t let success spoil it.
His catch ranks among the signature performances in Georgia history that remain unforgettable moments of Bulldog glory.
Like Tom Philpott’s no hitter on Grant Field in 1919; Frank Sinkwich winning the Heisman Trophy after playing with a broken jaw in 1941; Charley Trippi gaining over a hundred yards in the Rose Bowl victory over UCLA on New Year’s Day, 1943; Theron Sapp breaking the drought in 1957; Tarkenton to Heron to win the SEC championship in 1959; Don Woeltjen’s no-hitter on Rose Bowl Field in 1963; Bellue to Scott against Florida in 1980; and Herschel Walker gaining 150 yards with a dislocated shoulder to lead Georgia to the national championship in 1980, among many others.
When not busy with baseball and maintaining a 4.0 average in the classroom, Cole can’t get enough of hunting and fishing, an influence brought about by his dad’s affection for such outdoor activities. This enabled them to spend time together when he was growing up.
His major — atmospheric science — is worthy of a cursory review. Cole is very curious about the weather and enjoys watching the news. However, he has no affinity for being on camera.
The reason?
“Just too shy,” he says.
An avid reader, Cole aspires to travel and experience, such as fly fishing out west or seeing sporting events like the Super Bowl and the World Series in person.
In the meantime, with dreams of Omaha and beyond, he wants to continue contributing to the baseball Bulldogs' success. Cole’s life is off to a great start, and he can’t wait for the next opportunity.
Since grade school, Cole has always taken his glove to Foley Field and has a small collection of foul balls he caught over the years. The centerpiece of that collection now has an enduring jewel: “The Catch.”