Now, there can be no mistaking it. Zama American's and Taegu American's football programs are officially on the competitive map after years of wandering in the wilderness.

Welcome to the land of contention! Great to have you!

A tip of the cap to Ken Johnson, the senior who proved equally versed in scoring on defense (73-yard third-quarter fumble return) and offense (20-yard fourth-quarter TD run) in the Trojans' 18-8 win Friday at American School In Japan. And new coach Steven Merrell's Wing-T offense also showcased Josh Johnson, whose 16-yard second-quarter reverse gave Zama a 6-2 lead it would not relinquish.

The victory under the lights at Mustang Valley evened the Trojans' record at 2-2 and gave them back-to-back victories for the first time since the 2004 season.

Taegu waited a bit longer for its defining moment, four-plus seasons and 18 defeats dating back to 2002 before Friday's 13-0 shutout of Osan American at Camp Walker's Kelly Field.

For perspective's sake, the Warriors' last victory predates the takeover of senior football by DODDS-Korea in 2003.

Thank Antonio Harris in large measure for the breakthrough triumph. Try 21 1/2 tackles -- a school and league record. "He was in on almost every play," coach Ken Walter said.

Harris also tossed in 105 yards and a TD run on 13 carries, joined by Angel Hickman's 101 yards and a touchdown on 11 attempts.

Nothing like the feeling of victory so long in coming. It should make the rest of the season in Japan and South Korea that much more competitive.

As the old Kadena Buccaneers coach Bill Mierzejewski once remarked: "Ain't parity fun?"