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 Arsenal FC of Pittsburgh (now Steel City FC) from 2020–22, played at and attended Shady Side Academy for two years and most recently completed his sophomore campaign at High Point University, was selected with the 70th overall pick in the 2026 Major League Soccer SuperDraft on Thursday.

“This has been a dream for me since I was a kid, and for it to actually happen feels 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 across 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 freshman campaign in 2024, he appeared in 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 Arsenal FC of Pittsburgh, Johnson moved on to Barca Residency Academy in Arizona, where he was named to the Best XI at the 2022 U16 USYS National Championships, earned the 2024 Barca Heart Award, and competed in the 2023 and 2024 MLS NEXT Cup, bringing a strong leadership background and competitive pedigree to the midfield.

His former coach with Arsenal FC (Steel City FC), Ed Ellsworth, was estatic when he learned the news that Johnson was selected by the Rapids.

“It’s a proud day,” Ellsworth told Pittsburgh Soccer Now.

“Koven played 10 years at Arsenal FC (now Steel City FC) and two seasons at Shady Side Academy.  He played in every minute of 2020 WPIAL Final vs Deer Lakes. Incredible player. Even better human.”