All-State Hillcrest Junior Honored By Chicago Bears For Flag football

Hillcrest High School junior Da'Jha Johnson was recently recognized by the Chicago Bears as one of the top 56 flag football players in the state. The honor, awarded during a special dinner at Halas Hall, celebrated her impressive performance in the first-ever IHSA-sanctioned girls flag football season and her dedication as a student-athlete.

Da'Jha, who served as the quarterback for Hillcrest’s flag football team, helped lead her team to a regional championship in the program’s first year. Her leadership, athleticism, and dedication on the field earned her an Honorable Mention plaque presented by the Bears, an accomplishment that highlights her versatility beyond her primary sport of basketball.

“It’s been an amazing journey,” said Da'Jha, reflecting on her flag football experience. “I started playing because I’ve always loved football, and this was the closest chance I had to being part of the sport. Being the quarterback allowed me to connect with my teammates, and it’s really helped me grow as a person.”

Athletic Director Dr. Maurice Young praised Da'Jha for her poise, leadership, and commitment to the Hillcrest community. “Da'Jha could have chosen to focus solely on basketball, where she’s a standout athlete, but instead, she embraced the opportunity to lead our flag football team. She’s shown other young women what’s possible, and she’s left a legacy for future athletes at Hillcrest.”

Flag football, officially sanctioned by the IHSA last spring, has quickly grown in popularity, giving female athletes a platform to compete in a traditionally male-dominated sport. Dr. Young noted that Hillcrest’s program launched due to the enthusiasm of students like Da'Jha, who were eager to bring the sport to life. “Our athletics program is always looking to expand and offer new opportunities, and flag football is a perfect example of that growth. Students like Da'Jha make it possible for Hillcrest to continually raise the bar for athletic achievement.”

Da'Jha’s journey at Hillcrest began before high school, when she participated in basketball open gyms as a middle schooler. Since then, she has grown into a confident, accomplished athlete known for her resilience and ability to handle high-pressure situations.

Looking back on the recognition from the Chicago Bears, Da'Jha described it as a surreal moment. “I didn’t believe it at first,” she said. “My coach told me to check my email, and when I saw the invitation, I had my mom read it to make sure it was real. It was such an honor to represent my team and Hillcrest at that event.”

The Chicago Bears event was a celebration of excellence, where Da'Jha joined other top student-athletes for an evening of recognition and inspiration. “Seeing my name on that plaque was a moment I’ll never forget,” she said.

Hillcrest High School congratulates Da'Jha on her achievements and thanks her for being a trailblazer and role model for young athletes in the community.

About Bremen High School District 228
Bremen High School District 228 is located in the southwest suburbs of Chicago and serves the communities of Midlothian, Posen, Tinley Park, Markham, Hazel Crest, Country Club Hills and Oak Forest. District 228 serves over 5,000 students and employs 800 full and part-time staff members. Bremen High School, in Midlothian, opened its doors to students in September of 1953. Since then, District 228 opened three additional schools. Tinley Park High School opened in 1961; Hillcrest High School, in Country Club Hills, opened in 1967; and Oak Forest High School opened in 1970. For more information, please visit https://www.bhsd228.com/