The Greater Orlando Sports Commission named UCF’s Brodrick Johnson, Assistant Athletics Director and Director of the Knights Leadership Academy, the winner of the Best in Social Responsibilities at the 2024 SPORTYS, recognizing his commitment to student-athlete’s holistic development and his profound impact on community engagement.
The 2024 SPORTYS honored sports business professionals whose contributions and impact have been vital in making Greater Orlando one of the country’s premier sports destinations. The 68 finalists represented 34 different organizations across Greater Orlando and were selected by a voting committee made up of members of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission board of directors.
“I am deeply honored and grateful to receive this award, which reflects the meaningful work we are doing at UCF Athletics Association through the Knights Leadership Academy,” Johnson said. “I am fortunate to work alongside an extraordinary team whose support and shared vision inspire me every day. Together, we strive to elevate the UCF brand while creating lasting change in our community and enriching the lives of young people and student-athletes.
“A special thank you to Terry Mohajir, our Vice President and Director of Athletics, for trusting me with this opportunity and to everyone who has believed in me and my mission. This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of phenomenal individuals who have walked with me on this journey. I am truly grateful for their unwavering support and collaboration in achieving these shared goals.
“Thank you to the Greater Orlando Sports Commission for this incredible honor, a highlight of my career in college athletics. Reflecting on my journey from humble beginnings in Jonesboro, Arkansas, to this moment, I am reminded of the power of faith and the connections that have shaped my path. With gratitude to God for guiding me and surrounding me with remarkable people, I remain committed to making a positive impact. Together, we are creating change and making a difference.”
Since joining the UCF Athletics department in 2021, Johnson has been a driving force behind the Knights Leadership Academy (KLA), a program that builds the tools athletes will need in their everyday lives such as leadership, time management, and financial literacy to create well-rounded individuals who are prepared for life beyond sports. Johnson’s mentorship method focuses on helping athletes develop as they balance academics, sports, and personal growth. His personalized approach helps student-athletes identify their strengths, set goals, and develop critical life skills, bridging the gap between athletics and professional aspirations. Johnson’s commitment to UCF’s athletes earned him the title of Assistant Athletics Director in May 2022.
Over the last 12 months, Johnson’s dedication and enthusiasm has fostered a strong relationship with the Orlando community, specifically Orlando County Public Schools (OCPS).
This collaboration earned the department the 2023-2024 Outstanding Partners in Education Award at the Community Outreach Crystal Awards, highlighting the impact of the KLA’s community outreach efforts and its role in connecting student-athletes with local students and organizations. Johnson has organized multiple community service events, including the annual “Knight of Giving” program, where UCF athletes partner with OCPS to provide Christmas gifts for underprivileged elementary students. Other community engagement activities include a food drive benefiting local food banks, Valentine’s Day card distribution at Arnold Palmer Children's Hospital, and the "Trunk or Treat" event for Union Park Elementary School.
Johnson has also cultivated a meaningful partnership with Team Impact, an organization that pairs children with life-threatening illnesses with collegiate sports teams. Since Johnson’s arrival, the program has expanded significantly, with five UCF teams adopting children; his ultimate goal is for all 16 teams to be involved by January 2025. This partnership not only gives back to the community and the children but also creates life-changing experiences for UCF athletes, something Johnson’s unique approach prioritizes.
In addition to these impactful initiatives, Johnson has worked tirelessly to expand UCF Athletics' involvement in community service. In the 2023-24 academic year, UCF student-athletes contributed a record-breaking 2,860 hours of community service. His leadership has helped foster a culture of giving back, where all 16 UCF sports teams are now actively involved in community outreach.
Johnson’s commitment and passion for UCF’s athletes and the communities that support them will continue to have a lasting impact as his mentorship and outreach programs continue to flourish.