‘The Johns’ Withdraw From MLP Columbus Over Lighting Concerns

Source: Pickleland

In a surprising development at MLP Columbus, Ben and Collin Johns have withdrawn from the remainder of the competition due to issues related to lighting. The decision was confirmed on-site Friday afternoon, as concerns over player safety took priority.

Representing the Carolina Hogs, the Johns brothers had participated in two matches—first falling to the Phoenix Flames on Thursday, followed by a loss to the Atlanta Bouncers on Friday. With the team currently sitting at a 0-4 record, their departure means replacements will now step in to complete the weekend schedule.

Ben Johns’ history with vision sensitivity played a key role in the decision. He has lingering eye damage from a childhood sledding accident, and does not wear protective eyewear during competition. Under suboptimal lighting conditions, that combination can significantly affect his performance and safety on court. The move to withdraw was made with those factors in mind.

Carolina is slated to play four more matches this weekend. In the absence of the Johns brothers, Martin Emmrich and Ross Whittaker have been tapped to fill the gap. The team’s third rostered male, Brandon French, did not travel to Columbus, which made additional substitutions necessary.

On the women’s side, Carolina will also see a change, with Zoey Weil stepping in for Liz Truluck for the Saturday and Sunday matches.

The absence of the sport’s most recognized sibling duo undoubtedly shifts the dynamics for the Carolina Hogs—but also opens up opportunities for other players to step into the spotlight.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on how these last-minute substitutions shape Carolina’s final push at MLP Columbus.