Dale Earnhardt Jr. sends message to Jenna Johnson on Alabama Senior Day

No matter where it occurs, Senior Day is one of the best events on the calendar. Celebrating players who spent four years playing college softball is special. Alabama is no different and decided to honor their seniors on Saturday against Virginia Tech.

Jenna Johnson began her career at Alabama in 2020 and is in the midst of her fifth season. She has been an All-SEC caliber player and done so while wearing No. 88. This is a tribute to Dale Earnhardt Jr., someone Johnson is a huge fan of.

Well, after going through the ceremony with her teammates, there was one more special message on the video board at Rhoades Stadium. Earnhardt sat down to say a few words to Johnson, talking about what a privilege it has been to see her wear No. 88.

“Hey Jenna Johnson, it’s Dale Earnhardt Jr,” Earnhardt said. “I wanted to say congratulations to you, a five-year starter for Alabama. Just what an impressive career. A leader on the team and wearing that No. 88, I hear you’ve been a big fan of mine for years.

“Just appreciate you honoring me that way. I hear you’re going to pass that number down to your sister. That’s really, really cool. We’re all proud of you, finish the year strong.”

As Earnhardt mentioned, Johnson will be passing the number down to her sister, who is currently on the team. However, Lauren dawns No. 18 as a true freshman. When Jenna graduates and leaves at the end of the season, it will get passed down and keep the tradition alive.

Unfortunately, Alabama did not get a win against Virginia Tech, dropping the second game of a two-game series over the weekend. Johnson did have a good game though, recording a hit, walking once, and scoring a run.

There is still plenty of softball for Johnson to play, with the Senior Day just occurring early in the season. Alabama will be hoping to make an NCAA Tournament run and get back to Oklahoma City for the Women’s College World Series.

Johnson has been there twice since Johnson arrived on campus but has not advanced to the championship series. One final opportunity presents itself to Johnson in what will be her final race with the No. 88.

While plenty in Tuscaloosa will be cheering for her and the Crimson Tide to win this season, Earnhardt will be as well.