Playing Career
After initially failing to gain a berth in the Carlton side, Johnston moved to VFA side Prahran, under coach Mick Erwin, and was part of their premiership winning team.
Under VFL zone laws in those days, in 1979 Johnston asked to be cleared to play for the Melbourne Football Club, but coach Alex Jesaulenko wanted to see him play before axing him. He debuted in round 3, playing against the Essendon Bombers. Johnston impressed, and became a vital member of the 1979 premiership side. He could play either across the half-forward line or in the centre. He was the recipient of the Carlton Best and Fairest award, the John Nicholls Medal (at that time called the Robert Reynolds Trophy), first in 1983 and then in 1986, when he tied with Craig Bradley.
Johnston was made captain of the Blues from 1984–1985, and his presence was critical in high-pressure games and especially finals. He played in the Carlton premiership sides of 1979, 1981, 1982 and 1987.
Read more about this topic: Wayne Johnston (footballer)
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