Libba Snr: Johannisen mirrors magic [Archive]

bornadog

26-05-2016, 11:17 AM

Dog Johannisen biding his time before return (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2016-05-25/dog-johannisen-biding-his-time-before-return)

WESTERN Bulldogs playmaker Jason Johannisen says his time on the sidelines has gone "fast" as he recovers from a serious hamstring tendon injury.

The 23-year-old sustained the damage kicking a trademark long, running goal against Carlton in round four, and it's expected he'll remain on the sidelines for a further four weeks.

Speaking at the AFL's African Day celebration, the South African-born speedster said he's happy with how the injury is healing, and is counting down the days until he can rejoin his teammates.

"It's all on track, but I'm looking at another four weeks, and then I'll be back playing," Johannisen told AFL.com.au.

"It's going really well because the weeks have gone by pretty fast, which is a good thing.

"I think I'll need to go through the VFL to get my fitness back, (but) I'm just really looking forward to getting out there with the boys."

Many footballers have bemoaned that rehab groups can be a lonely place when everyone else is preparing for and playing games, but given the Dogs' unlucky run with injuries this year, Johannisen has felt far from lonesome.

"Unfortunately there's a few boys in there including Matthew Suckling, Nathan Hrovat and Clay Smith," he said.
"It's not too bad at the minute, and hopefully we can all get back out there soon."

Johannisen doesn't believe the club's backline injury curse is starting to take its toll on other areas of the team, and points to coach Luke Beveridge's mantra of versatility, and the club's newfound depth, with helping cover the loss of some key players.

"I think the boys have been dealing with it pretty well, because we've got a few young kids in the team now who have made their debuts," he said.

"Bailey Williams and Kieran Collins have slotted in really well, and our depth is really important, so I think the boys are tracking along all right.

"Training to play in different roles has held us in good stead."
With his weekly schedule not as packed as usual, Johannisen is using his time wisely by setting himself up for life after football.

"Outside of footy I do a little bit of photography, so I'm looking to do a course at university," Johannisen said.
"I'm really enjoying it, so hopefully I can go pretty far with it."