Johnson’s ongoing development at Collingwood is sure to be one of the key narratives in the seasons ahead.
Collingwood Football Club has secured a significant talent for the upcoming
seasons with the re-signing of Ash Johnson. The star forward from Kimberley
has agreed to extend his stay at the club for another two years, ensuring his
services will remain with the Magpies until at least the end of the 2027 AFL
season.
Johnson, who was originally recruited by Collingwood in 2021 as a mature-age
player, has quickly become one of the most exciting prospects in the AFL. His
powerful marking, explosive pace, and incredible goal-scoring ability have
made him a crucial part of Collingwood’s forward line. The decision to extend
his contract underscores the club’s belief in his potential and his vital role in
their future success.
The 25-year-old forward’s journey to the AFL is an inspiring one, originating
from the remote Kimberley region in Western Australia. Having played his
early football in the country leagues, Johnson’s path to the AFL wasn’t a
conventional one. His skill set, however, was undeniable, and after a standout
season in the WAFL with East Perth, Collingwood saw the raw talent that
could be nurtured into an AFL star.
Since making his debut in 2022, Johnson has shown great promise. His ability
to read the play and his strong hands in the air have seen him take some
memorable marks in his short career. His athleticism and versatility have
allowed him to become a dynamic forward, capable of impacting games in a
variety of ways. In addition to his obvious physical attributes, Johnson’s
football intelligence and willingness to learn have made him a popular figure
within the team, with teammates and coaches alike praising his
professionalism and drive to improve.
While Johnson’s first few years in the AFL have seen a fair share of highlights,
he is still considered a developing player, and Collingwood’s commitment to
him for the next two years demonstrates their long-term vision for his growth.
The extension allows him the time and opportunity to build on his already
impressive performances and become an even more influential figure within
the team.
Collingwood’s Director of Football, Geoff Walsh, expressed his excitement
about the extension, emphasizing that the club’s strategy of nurturing young
talent is a key part of their success. “Ash’s potential is enormous,” Walsh said.
“He has shown exceptional growth since joining the club, and we’re thrilled
that he will continue to develop with us over the next two seasons. His
commitment to the club is a testament to his belief in the direction we are
heading, and we look forward to watching him grow as a player and a person.”
For Johnson, the decision to re-sign with Collingwood was a straightforward
one. “I’m extremely excited to continue my journey with the Pies,” he said.
“From the moment I arrived at the club, I felt welcomed, and I’ve learned so
much already. The coaching staff and my teammates have been incredibly
supportive, and I can’t wait to continue improving with such a talented group
of players. We’ve got a great team here, and I’m looking forward to
contributing to our success over the next few years.”
Fans of the Magpies will no doubt be thrilled with the news, as Johnson has
quickly become a fan favorite with his exciting style of play. His re-signing is
just another positive move in what has been an exciting time for Collingwood,
with the club showing its intent to build a competitive team for the future.
As Collingwood looks ahead to the 2025 season and beyond, the retention of
key players like Ash Johnson signals the club’s ambition to not only compete
for premierships but to build a sustainable future with a blend of experienced
stars and young talent. The two-year contract extension allows Johnson the
time to further develop his game and refine his skills, and in return, the club
gains the stability of knowing one of its key forward prospects will be around
for the long haul.
This announcement is a significant moment for both Ash Johnson and
Collingwood, with both parties clearly excited about the next chapter in their
relationship. With a promising future ahead, Johnson’s continued evolution at
Collingwood will undoubtedly be one of the stories to follow in the coming
seasons.
