By Christine Bramer

Staff Writer

Panther Stadium was the site for the Assembly Line Five Offensive Lineman Camp on Saturday. More than 70 boys ages 10 to 18 from all over Grayson County participated in the event.

Coach Tony Johnson, the offensive coordinator and offensive line coach for South Grand Prairie High School, was the motivating force behind the camp.

Johnson coached at Texas Christian University, where he worked with the offensive line that paved the way for LaDainian Tomlinson, the NCAA record holder for single-game rushing yardage who later won the National Football League's Most Valuable Player Award.

Johnson brought with him players, alumni and coaches from TCU and South Grand Prairie High that assisted him during the five-hour camp. Players learned the basic fundamentals, different blocks, zone concepts and other pro schemes. They also had the opportunity to hear from former and present TCU players on how Johnson's Assembly Line Five has helped them in their football careers.

Jeff Olson, a junior at TCU, not only helped coach the boys, but spoke to them about the importance of education and getting good grades to get into college.

Special guest Michael Toudouze, who has played the last four years with the Indianapolis Colts, was on the field to help coach and spoke to the players.

"If I had some of this camp when I was playing in high school, it may have prepared me better for college and the NFL," he said.

"The offensive linemen are the smartest on the field -- they know the play and what the count is -- that means you are up two points over the defense," Johnson said. Participants learned the five key components for the perfect block: Feet, fire, fit, fight and finish.

"The O-line starts the play and ends the play," Johnson continued.

Johnson has spent the last 16 years coaching the offensive line. He has coached more than 20 current and former NFL players.

Even a light rain shower could not dampen the intensity and fun the boys had. The participants in the camp all received Assembly Line Five T-shirts and shorts. After the drills were done, everyone met in the weight room for final thoughts and comments.

The Beaux Borel Award was given to Aaron Prideaux for his hard work and effort during the camp.

"This was the smoothest and biggest camp we have done yet. I want to thank all the coaches, players and parents," Johnson said.