Jason Johannisen credits the cut throat competition that exists on an AFL rookie list for strengthening his resolve and ambition to make it at the elite level.

Set to be officially elevated to the Western Bulldogs primary list at Thursday’s NAB AFL Draft, the 20 year-old has received reward for effort after spending two years honing his craft as a rookie.

“I’m extremely happy to be given this opportunity - just have to keep working hard and keep going,” said Johannisen.

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“It’s put quite a lot of confidence in my ability to play but also my mentality to stay as a rookie and just keep fighting for a spot.”

Maintaining composure when making his senior debut, the pacey utility relished the chance to play three senior games in 2012.

“All the coaches have helped me develop and improve my skills, so I was extremely happy to get three games this year,” he said.

“I was confident in my ability to play at the highest level, so it [made] me more hungry to improve my skills.

“It is exciting, everyone has got a bright future here. If we keep working hard together I think we will do well in the coming years.”
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The mild mannered West Australian has let his on field efforts do the talking while at the Bulldogs, with his marked improvement highlighted by his increasing influence at VFL affiliate Williamstown.

In 2011 Johannisen played the majority of the season with Williamstown’s development squad, only breaking into the senior VFL side for four games.

This season he graced Williamstown’s best players list on three of his nine VFL games and played three consecutive senior games before being ruled out for the season with a calf injury after Round 21.

“I definitely thought I could improve a lot but not in that short period of time,” he said.

With a new determination to provide the run and carry for the Bulldogs on the big stage, Johannisen is keen to continue his evolution as an AFL player in 2013.

“[I want to] definitely keep working hard at my fitness and my skills and try and cement a spot in the top side.”