https://www.townsvillebulletin.com.au/sport/local-sport/labourer-physio-captain-jack-johnson-is-a-balancing-expert/news-story/0341fed0198b715d609ae0305f8aba73 JACK Johnson is becoming well rehearsed in his juggling act. By day he ferries off the coast to work as a labourer and returns to his studies in physiotherapy. But he has little time to recuperate — once those tasks are complete he gets stuck into training with the Townsville Blackhawks’ under-20s side. Now his expertise in balance will be tested on the field upon being named his side’s 2020 captain. By his own admission, Johnson is not much of a talker. He will say “what he has to say” when it has to be said but ultimately it will be his actions that lead his charges on the field. While he was originally from Mackay, Johnson said he had found great footing in Townsville and the announcement that he would lead the team this season was met with elation from the 19-year-old.
“I was stoked, I couldn’t believe it. I’m not from Townsville at all and I got introduced to the Blackhawks for the first time last year,” he said. “I had the time of my life with everyone, I love the Blackhawks – it’s an unreal home for me. “Now this year to not so much be acknowledged as the main leader but just one of the leaders was unreal.” Between his university, work and rugby league commitments, Johnson has flourished in Townsville. As a self-confessed “poor uni student” the Blackhawks were quick to help the young forward secure work. For him, it simply embodied what the club was all about. Johnson’s standing at the club is gathering speed with every hit out. Against the Mackay Cutters in the pre-season he was afforded the opportunity to step up to the senior side — a crucial step in his continued development as a player. When he first arrived in Townsville he competed in the senior A-grade competition, but everything about the clash in Bowen felt different. Each tackle was completed with extra ferocity. Every play the ball was slowed by the additional strength of his opponents. But Johnson was simply overwhelmed to be acknowledged as someone who could “cut the mustard” against bigger players. His focus may be squarely on leading his under-20s teammates to the title, but the experience has stirred thoughts of an Intrust Super Cup debut in the back of his mind. “To play top grade men, some fellas who could push a spot for the Cowboys, was unreal,” Johnson gushed. “I had so much fun, it was obviously daunting as and I was nervous but I just had a ball out there. “I don’t know if it (a debut) is on my cards, I would love it to be on my cards. Whether or not Payney has a look at me, it’s up to him.”
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AuthorOne of my main responsibilities was to cover the Blackhawks and Gold Stars and build strong relationships at the club. Archives
May 2020
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