2003
Johnson backed up his 2002 best and fairest winning year, with another stellar season. Johnson handled the challenge of moving from the back pocket and into the mid-field with sheer class and took with him his grunt and toughness. His hardness at the ball and his opponent was a valuable asset for the team again last season. Johnson has recently re-signed with the club for another two years and has fast become one of the team's onfield leaders.
STRENGTHS
Johnson’s strength and determination are two of his major assets. He attacks the ball and is not afraid to put his body on the line in a contest. He rarely gives his opponent room to move and has the ability to gain possession of the ball in tough situations. Johnson worked hard on improving his endurance last season and reaped the rewards of his hard work on the training track – while others tired he ran games out strongly.
POSITION
After playing the majority of his career in the back pocket, Johnson enjoyed the challenge of the mid-field in 2003. He provided great support in the centre to Jason Johnson and his ability to carry the ball through heavy traffic proved valuable. Johnson will again spend most of his time in the centre this year and will benefit from the experience he gained in 2003. Johnson will need to further improve his fitness to run out entire games in the centre and have the impact the team requires.
2004
Mark Johnson proved in 2003 that he can match it with some of the best mid-fielders in the competition. His tough hard-nosed attitude has ensured he is a chance in any contest and his never-day die attitude inspires his teammates. With a strong pre-season under his belt and the experience of one season in the midfield, Johnson will be dangerous in 2004. Johnson’s leadership capabilities were recognised earlier this season when he was named joint deputy vice captain with Jason Johnson.
WHAT SHEEDY SAYS
Mark is a very similar player to Jason Johnson, but he is probably more of a player that would stand on people’s head and take the odd mark, where as Jason doesn’t. Mark and Jason are to be congratulated on their appointments as deputy vice captains of the club. Mark could really play any position on the field that a six footer can play. He could play back, half back, back pocket, wing, centre, on-ball, half forward and forward pocket – so he has great flexibility in his game. He has great take-off speed and strength, which allows him to break the game open.
