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Harlan Johnson was one of Coach Howard Woods, outstanding athletes at Sioux Falls Washington High who became a standout football player for Augustana during those hard and trying years immediately following World War II.
Harlan was a four year letterman (for Coach "Lefty" Olson in 1947, and for Coach Jerry Thompson in 1948-50) playing the ironman role on both offense and defense. He was chosen as an All-North Central defensive end in his sophomore year. Fans of that era recall his crushing rushes which wiped out the interference on the way to the quarterback or runner.
He was also an excellent pass receiver and blocker over the North Dakota Sioux by taking a handoff from quarterback Virg Sandvig, fading back and throwing 27-yard pass to a halfback on the three yard line which lead to the winning score.
Harlan missed much of the 1949 season with a shoulder separation but rebounded as a senior to captain the team, lead in pass receptions, and again receive all conference honors.
He was a member of the Websterian Society, the "A" Club and was chosen as the 1951 Honor Athlete.
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