Williamstown star Brett Johnson has retired from footy to concentrate on work commitments.7063 Picture: DAMIAN VISENTINI
BY MICHAEL ESPOSITO
WILLIAMSTOWN champion Brett Johnson said increased work commitments was the main reason behind his decision to hang up the boots.
Greater responsibilities in his full-time role at the AFL Players Association would have meant compromising his commitment to Williamstown Football Club, which is just not in his nature.
“I only want to do something if I can do it properly. I didn’t want to commit to the footy club and do something half-hearted,” Johnson said. “It wouldn’t be setting a good example for the younger guys.”
“Probably the one thing that makes it a little bit easier in making the decision is knowing that the club’s in good hands with Peter German as coach, and the club’s well set up off the field with the redevelopment.”
Johnson’s glittering VFL career has grossed several individual accolades, but captaining the club with distinction is perhaps his greatest achievement.
“Consistency over the six years is probably something I’m proud of the most,” he said.
The 30-year-old came to Williamstown in 2006 after playing 75 AFL games with Hawthorn and then Carlton (and 59 games for their VFL affiliates. Since moving to Williamstown, Johnson was named in the VFL team of the year four times, has been club champion twice, and last year captained the VFL’s state side against WA.
He was also made life member of the VFL this year, after playing his 175th VFL game.
The one achievement missing from his CV is a premiership.
“Although I didn’t taste the ultimate success sometimes it’s not all about that,” Johnson said.
Johnson has overseen the development of many Seagulls players, but the tales of perseverance that have enabled Liam Picken and David Stretton to get the most out of their footy stick out in his mind.
Both players toiled in he Williamstown reserves before getting a chance at a higher level.
Johnson also heaped praise on Stretton, who won an A. Todd medal for best and fairest player in the VFL reserves in 2006 and went on to forge a career in the first team, which saw him represent Victoria against SA in 2008.
With Stretton and Ben Davies also not playing for Williamstown next year, the Seagulls have lost three life members and a significant chunk of their midfield.
Ben Jolley, who thrived in his role as vice-captain this year with a Gerry Callahan medal win and a third place in the Liston trophy, will replace Johnson as captain.
