CJ Johnson is female Lutheran East High School football all-star

CLEVELAND - CJ Johnson made the all-star team by hard work at practice. She's an all-star because of making big plays on the football field and she's making history.

"It be the first time a young lady was nominated for the game in the 40-year history of the game," said East West game chairman Larry Keller.

That's right CJ "Chawnte" Johnson is a female football player from Lutheran East High School.

"I love football so much. I feel like all the hard work that I did paid off and everybody can see it now," said Johnson.

But some people have mixed feelings.

"I have mixed feelings about it. I want to make sure that the young lady is competitive," said Keller.

"At first, I thought she was someone's sister. But when she's out there, she's not scared. She plays aggressive and tough so she's cool with me," said Cleveland Heights football player Christin Cartwright.

It didn't take long for the guys to realize Johnson belonged on the field with them.

"CJ's heart is the one thing a lot of guys can't match. She's tough and she's determined," said Lutheran East head football coach Donald Dawson.

"It's a little different than the regular season. The competition is stiffer and she realized that. You can tell by her demeanor that she was up for the challenge," explained East all-stars head coach Scott Wodtly.

And Johnson was definitely up for the challenge.

"Just do me, just play the game. It makes me feel good to represent my school. I'm the first and only female to play football there. It makes me feel good that I'm going out with a bang."