Former Arsenal FC/Steel City FC and Shady Side Academy standout Koven Johnson selected by Colorado Rapids in MLS SuperDraft
Koven Johnson, who served as team captain for Pittsburgh Arsenal FC (now Steel City FC) from 2020-2022, played and attended Shady Side Academy for two years and recently completed his sophomore campaign at High Point University, was selected Thursday with the 70th overall pick in the 2026 Major League Soccer SuperDraft.
“This has been a dream of mine since I was a kid, and for it to come true seems unreal,” Johnson said.
“I can’t thank my family, friends and teammates enough, and of course, the High Point coaching staff for helping me along this journey.”
The Pittsburgh native logged 2,109 minutes over the 2024 and 2025 seasons, scoring one goal while establishing himself as a reliable presence in the center of the park at High Point.
During his first campaign in 2024, he played 15 matches with four starts, totaling 701 minutes. Johnson graduated from ASU Prep with summa cum laude honors in May 2024.
After 10 years playing for Pittsburgh Arsenal FC, Johnson joined the Barca Residency Academy in Arizona, where he was named to the Best XI of the 2022 USYS U16 National Championships, won the 2024 Barca Heart Award and competed in the 2023 and 2024 MLS NEXT Cup, bringing strong leadership experience and a competitive pedigree to the midfield.
His former coach with Arsenal FC (Steel City FC), Ed Ellsworth, was static when he heard the news that Johnson had been selected by the Rapids.
“It’s a proud day,” Ellsworth said Pittsburgh Football Now.
“Koven played 10 years at Arsenal FC (now Steel City FC) and two seasons at Shady Side Academy. Played every minute of the 2020 WPIAL final against Deer Lakes. Incredible player. Even better human.”
