With the 2021 NAB AFL Draft just eight days away, today we’re reflecting on Jason Johannisen’s journey in the red, white and blue.
A promising sprinter and rugby union junior, Jason Johannisen didn’t know what footy was when he arrived in Perth as an eight-year-old.
Born in South Africa, Johannisen was asked to fill in for his cousin’s footy team – the Willetton Blues - one weekend, three years after making the move to Australia.
That he did – and the rest is history.
Johannisen was initially selected by the Bulldogs with pick 39 in the 2011 Rookie Draft, making his debut in round 19 of the 2012 season against North Melbourne.
That same year, he was then promoted to the senior list via pick 105 in the 2012 National Draft.
Now aged 29, the East Fremantle product and 2014 VFL premiership player has since etched his name into the Bulldogs’ folklore.
Claiming the 2016 Norm Smith Medal in the Club’s drought-breaking premiership with his trademark dash and dare across half-back, Johannisen played a starring role with 33 disposals, seven marks, and nine inside 50s in just his 64th AFL match.
His other accolades include the Doug Hawkins Medal as runner-up in the 2017 Charles Sutton Medal count, and selection in the All Stars team for the 2020 State of Origin Bushfire Relief charity match.
Transitioning into more of an attacking role this season, Johannisen added 25 games to his overall tally of 167 matches, and notched up the 150-game milestone with a win over Carlton in round eight.
