Clarion Athletics

"Turk" Johnson was an outstanding athlete, an exemplary coach and devoted to Clarion University as Director of Public Affairs and Alumni Relations for 22 years. A native of Johnsonburg and a 1940 grad of Johnsonburg High, Ernie served in the U.S. Air Force in WWII and then enrolled at Clarion. A quality athlete, he was the starting catcher from 1945-47, led the team in homeruns and had a batting average of .387. Catching several no-hitters, he was instrumental in Clarion's undefeated 1946 season. He also was the starting qb for 3 seasons for the Golden Eagles. After graduating with a B.S. Degree in Education (Math & Science) in 1947, he taught and coached at a variety of high schools before returning to Clarion in 1956. Turk became Clarion's head football coach from 1957-62 and compiled an overall record of 23-23-3. He also served as head baseball coach from 1956-63. An associate professor at Clarion, he taught in the education, psychology and HPE departments until 1973 when he became director of Public Affairs until his retirement in 1978. He received Clarion University's Distinguished Service Award in 1978.