What a year 2025 has been for Jayah Johnson, the outstanding 2029 pitcher/infielder who was ranked No. 16 in the HOT 100 for that class when it was released in April. 

The Georgia high schooler had an outstanding summer and fall with the Georgia Impact – McBay 12U team where she hit .405 with a .535 on-base percentage, 23 home runs and 44 steals while recording a 2.91 ERA with 51 strikeouts.

Then came the fall and her freshman campaign with Eastside High in Covington, Ga.

Not only did Jayah start, but she helped the Eagles win state at the Georgia 4A level highlighted by her hitting a home run in the clinching championship game.

The athlete is appreciative of what she’s been able to accomplish already in her young but very accomplished career.

“I’ve been fortunate to experience a lot of success in softball, but everything I’ve earned comes from hard work and the people who support me,” she explains.

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Early Sports Successes

In middle school softball, Jayah was a three-year MVP, helped her team go undefeated and win the championship in Year 3.

Those accomplishments in junior high rolled into her high school endeavors as well.

After competing for her title-winning campaign for Eastside High, Jayah was named 1^st Team All-Region.

Other honors have included her being named a 2025 Scenic City Summer All Star MVP and she was named a Minority Softball All American and won the Home Run Derby the event offered.

Like many in the softball world, Jayah entered the sport playing for her father, Jonathan Johnson, at the rec ball level before she transitioned into club play with the Lady Dukes in 10U.

Next came a productive run with Georgia Impact – McBay at the 14U level after everything clicked in her knowing what it’d take to succeed.

“That’s where I learned discipline, leadership, and resilience,” the athlete recalls. “One of the biggest obstacles I’ve overcome is learning to sacrifice comfort in order to reach my goals.”

“Waking up at 5 am in the morning for workouts at a young age wasn’t a chore to me. Those early mornings taught me discipline, and they made the connection between hard work and performance very real.”

“Playing a sport that demands high-level performance pushed me to hold myself accountable every day.”

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The Family That Plays Together…

Jayah is the oldest of three athletes and she loves being a mentor to her younger siblings.

Jayce, her brother, plays shortstop and centerfield for the Bullpen Elite Rider 11U baseball team out of Covington, Ga. and he also plays football for the Stonecrest Spartans 11U team, which was ranked No. 3 in the nation by United Tykes Network (UTN). On the gridiron, Jayce plays quarterback and free safety.

Younger sister Jordynn competes for the Social Circle Bombers 12U team where she is a pitcher and second baseman. When not on the fields, she also loves to dance.

Their proud father loves what he’s seeing in the growth of his athletic children.

“They do work hard and have fun in sports,” he says, “but they’re even better human beings. That’s what I’m most proud of.”

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Off the Playing Fields

Jayah is as accomplished away from her athletic exploits and keeps busy in her extra-curriculars.

When not in uniform, the high schooler is involved in the ECO (Eco-Schools) organization at Eastside, which focuses on being involved in environmental issues, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Jayah also attends the New Life Praise Center, a modern Christian church in her hometown of Covington.

She also loves being involved socially and helping others enjoy the benefits of playing sports.

“I enjoy spending time with friends, reading, and volunteering at Earl O’Neal Park where I help younger girls learn the game,” Jayah adds. “I also love supporting my younger siblings in everything they do.”

The athlete says she likes to research and study what success looks like in sports… and in life in general.

“I love to read,” Jayah explains. “A book I recently finished that I loved is ‘The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens.’  Softball is a game of failure and learning to use those moments to grow instead of letting them define me has made me mentally stronger.”

“All of these experiences continue to shape not only the athlete I am but the person I want to become.”

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Putting in the Work

Although a great natural athlete, Jayah stresses that her success hasn’t come by luck or happenstance.

“I’ve really been putting in the work both at practice and in my backyard,” she says, “and all the hours I’ve put in are finally showing (success).”

“Every rep, every swing, and every drill has pushed me to improve, and I can feel myself growing as a player.”

“Softball isn’t just something I play; it’s something I love and something that’s become a huge part of who I am. The game challenges me, motivates me, and keeps me hungry to get better every single day.”

“Whether it’s competing with my team, training on my own, or just stepping onto the field, softball gives me a feeling I don’t want to let go of.”

The sport has also taught her the value of working with others… building and contributing to the team concept.

“Another major lesson I’ve learned is trusting my teammates,” Jayah continues. “Some of my favorite moments are the comeback wins that showed me what real teamwork looks like.

“Playing with teammates who believe in me is honestly one of my biggest superpowers, and it’s shaped the kind of player I’m becoming.”

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Going Full Circle to Be a Lady Duke

Jayah started with the Lady Dukes at 10U and recently it was announced by the title-winning club organization headquartered on the East Coast that she would return to the program lead by James Lamar.

Impressively, Jayah will skip competing at the 16U age division and go straight to the Lady Dukes powerhouse 18U team.

The travel ball org put out a release this week emphasizing how big this is for both sides.

“The Lady Dukes Lamar family proudly welcomes 2029 standout Jayah Johnson — a dynamic force in the middle infield with elite athleticism, power, and a competitive edge beyond her years,” the announcement begins.

“Jayah is the definition of big-stage ready. She plays the game with confidence, swagger, and a work ethic that sets her apart from the moment she steps on the field.”

“Offensively, she brings true impact power and the ability to change a game with one swing. Defensively, her range, smooth actions, and fast-twitch reactions make her a natural shortstop who can lock down the middle and elevate everyone around her.”

“What makes Jayah special is more than just her talent — it’s her hunger. She wants the pressure, she wants the lights, and she wants to compete against the very best. That mentality aligns perfectly with the Lady Dukes standard.”

“We are excited to help Jayah grow, push her, and give her every opportunity to shine on the national stage. Her future is bright, and her journey in Duke Blue starts now.”

“Welcome to the Lady Dukes, Jayah — now let’s go to work!”

— Brentt Eads/Line Drive Softball