Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Athletics

Originally from Strangnas, Sweden, Elina Johansson graduated from the Embry-Riddle women's soccer program in 2010 as one of the most decorated players in program history. Described by ERAU Head Coach Samantha Bohon as someone who "consistently demonstrated commitment and perseverance", Johansson immediately impacted the Eagle lineup as a freshman, setting an ERAU single-game scoring record with five goals against Lambuth (Sept. 1, 2007) on the way to Florida Sun Conference Newcomer of the Year, All-Region and honorable mention All-America recognition.
 
As a sophomore, Johansson sustained an injury that limited her to just 13 appearances, but she still finished the year as the team leader in points (29), goals scored (14) and game-winners (5), and that afforded her NAIA and NSCAA/NAIA Second Team All-America and first team All-Conference honors.
 
Johansson enjoyed a record-setting campaign in 2009, breaking 12 school records and earning NAIA National Player of the Week (Oct. 27) accolades. She was also named The Sun Conference Player of the Year and made her second appearance on the NAIA All-America roster, garnering second team honors.
 
Johansson's mark on the program can still be seen today as she still holds several school records and is listed among the program's best in almost every offensive category. She is the Eagles' career leader in points (170), points per game (2.50), shots (334), and holds single season records in points (66), assists (20) and points per game (3.30), as well as the single-game records for points (12), goals (5) and shots (19). She also ranks in ERAU's top 10 in career assists (2^nd, 42), goals (3^rd, 64), and game-winning goals (4^th, 14), along with appearances on the single-season list of goals (2^nd, 23) and game-winners (T3rd, 5).
 
After completing her undergraduate degree in Business Administration at Embry-Riddle, Johansson went to Webber International to pursue her master's degree, where she spent two seasons as assistant coach to the women's soccer program.
 
Johansson then returned to Sweden where she was able to pursue a professional soccer career. She played for Hammarby and Eskitstuna United in the highest professional division in Sweden until an injury curtailed her playing career.
 
Johansson, who resides in Zurich, Switzerland, is a Shuttle Specialist for JetSmarter.


 
"This is my 10^th season here and I unequivocally believe that our program would not be at the level we are today without EJ and her four years of investment. Her mark on the program goes far beyond her Embry-Riddle playing career. She opened doors for international players to follow in her footsteps and helped ERAU establish itself as one of the top programs in the NAIA, while also experiencing early success in NCAA Division II play."
Samantha Bohon
Head Coach, Embry-Riddle Women's Soccer (2007-Present)
 
"As her academic transcript, undergraduate activities listing and post-graduation professional resume reflects, Elina not only committed to high achievement but also to be disciplined in pursuit of worthy goals, both as a team player and effective leader. Elina is a successful graduate of the very challenging ERAU degree program in Business, where she earned an excellent cumulative grade point average, was selected for several term academic achievements while also being involved in prominent community service activities and earning university, conference and national athletic awards and recognition. In addition to a successful, extensive education and work background, she was also an active participant, contributor and leader in a variety of roles. The leadership skills and ability to manage an array of responsibilities made her an invaluable, exceptional member of our university."
John E. Rollins
Director, Academic Performances, Embry-Riddle University
 
"Elina was a spirited student who thrived on intellectual and leadership challenges—both academic and social. She managed to maintain a good balance between her academic classes, her passion for the sport of soccer, and her regular volunteerism. Elina was a student in my (Jim's) COM 219 course (Speech) during the fall 2008 term. In that course she demonstrated competence in public speaking and group problem analysis, always delivering her speeches with clarity and an engaging smile. Taking her Embry-Riddle academics seriously, Elina continuously looked for challenges and intellectual advancement."
James & Cheryl Cunningham
Professors, Humanities Embry-Riddle University
 
"While it is easy to admire EJ's plethora of academic and athletic achievements, it is perhaps more important to acknowledge her easygoing, unselfish, loving personality. From the day that I met her, she has always looked out for me, and that is no different now. I came to college as a 17-year-old kid, together with seven other freshmen soccer players. Whether we were on or off the field, EJ was always the first to offer her hand, and as a result, she quickly earned the nickname 'Mother Duck.' I spent the next two years under her wing, and she helped me grow tremendously both as a person and a player."
Kriszelda "Krizzy" Menez
Embry-Riddle Women's Soccer (2010-13)