Meet Chicago Red Star Jaimel Johnson: Ready To Serve When Called

Backup goalkeeper Jaimel Johnson may be one of the least known Chicago Red Stars, but she has an impressive resume.

The University of Tennessee standout was taken in the 10th round of the WPS General Draft by the Boston Breakers then was later dealt to Chicago.

At Tennessee, Johnson was the starting keeper from 2006-2008. Jaimel played all but 23 minutes of her senior season, posting a 1.24 GAA with five shutouts.  While at Tennessee, she was named to the 2008 Hermann Trophy Watch List, voted MVP of the 2008 SEC Tournament, and included on Top Drawer Soccer's National Team that season. She also earned All-SEC first team and SEC All-Academic Team honors.

She played for Ohio Elite U-18 Soccer Academy where she won four consecutive state titles from 2001-2004.

She participated in the Olympic Pool Development Camp in 2003.

Playing backup keeper has got to be the loneliest and most frustrating role on a soccer club. It must be hard not to hope for the injury or failure of the number one. That person is probably one of your best friends on the squad and your team's best hope for continued success however. Talk about mixed emotions!

Still, there is a personality type that goes with playing in goal. Like playing quarterback or pitcher, the keeper carries the team on her shoulders. To play the position at any level beyond U9, one has to believe she is the best person for the job and has to be able to take command of the field when called to play.

Such is the life of Red Stars backup keeper Jaimel Johnson. She plays understudy to Caroline Jonnson, a Swedish  international, and the WPS leader in saves.  

The good news is that keepers who shadow great keepers are more likely to become great keepers themselves one day. Jaimel Johnson's day is yet to come. In the meantime, she's happy to be part of the Red Stars and WPS in their inaugural season.