Travis Johnstone [Archive]

Grimreepah

11 Oct 2007, 18:19

Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Travis_Johnstone)

Travis Johnstone (born July 17, 1980 is an Australian rules footballer, and currently plays for the Melbourne Demons in the Australian Football League.
Johnstone was the #1 selection in the 1997 AFL Draft (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1997_AFL_Draft) and made his debut in the 1998 season.
Johnstone took time to develop into a star player for Melbourne, and for some time was criticised in the football media for underachieving as a #1 draft selection.
In 2002 he finished equal fourth in Brownlow Medal voting, and in 2005 he won his first Melbourne Best and Fairest Award, the Keith 'Bluey' Truscott Medal (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keith_%27Bluey%27_Truscott_Medal), and he led the AFL in total kicks.
Johnstone has since developed into a midfielder possessing terrific vision and skill who in 2006 led the team for the second year in a row in the Brownlow Medal, with 11 votes. During the year he accumulated 469 disposals at 21 an outing, which included first for inside 50's (87) and third for rebounds from 50 (55). Was also 5th in tackles (77).
In 2007 Johnstone struggled to capture his best form and wasn't helped by injuries holding him to only 15 games, although in glimpes fans saw why Travis Johnstone is one of the AFL's most dangerous and talented midfielders.
In an act of lunacy in Trade Week October 2007, Johnstone was offered up for trade, despite having played under neither new coach Dean Bailey, or new director of football Chris Connolly. Apparently neither of these experienced football men had confidence in their own ability to get optimum results from Johnstone.

Good last paragraph:D

http://img122.imageshack.us/img122/3861/johnstonehx2.jpg

http://img159.imageshack.us/img159/6678/johnstone2is7.jpg

http://img352.imageshack.us/img352/9232/johnstone3or6.jpg

http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/2593/johnstone1gx1.jpg

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/8330/johnstone7hd4.jpg

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/679/johnstone8ri3.jpg

CoZi36

11 Oct 2007, 18:20

http://i24.tinypic.com/oa0uiu.jpg

Travis Johnstone

Fast Facts

Jumper No: 16 (For Melbourne)
Height: 184
Weight: 83
DOB: 1980-07-17
Recruited From: Chelsea/Dandenong U18
Career Matches: 145
Career Goals: 104

2007 Home & Away Totals

Matches: 15
Goals: 7
Marks: 54
Disposals: 294
Kicks: 225

CoZi36

11 Oct 2007, 18:21

About

The silky smooth skills of Travis Johnstone were once again on display in 2006, with him enjoying a consistent season playing in 22 games, and averaging 22 disposals. The gifted midfielder was heavily tagged, but still caused headaches for opposition coaches with his pristine delivery, particularly by foot. Finished 10th in Melbourne’s Best and Fairest, but was the team’s leading Brownlow vote getter with 11 votes. Has trained hard to increase his workrate, and looks set for another big year in 2007.

Records

AFL record
1998 - 2006: Melbourne - 145 games, 104 games

Brownlow votes
Career votes 47

Draft History
1997 National Draft priority selection (Melbourne) No.1 overall.
Awards Honours

Melbourne
Rising Star Nominee 1998
Equal Fourth Brownlow 2002
Best and Fairest 2005
Most Consistent Player 2005

AFL
Third Best and Fairest 2002

Source: Melbourne FC Website

CoZi36

11 Oct 2007, 18:24

Stats: http://stats.rleague.com/afl/stats/players/T/Travis_Johnstone.html

Free Willy

11 Oct 2007, 18:26

Congrats - a good deal for you guys.

An abundance of quality ruckman.......... you give away your 3rd / 4th best option & end up with an A grade midfielder.

A VERY good result for your club.

Grimreepah

11 Oct 2007, 18:36

Link (http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/footy/common/story_page/0,8033,22553640%255E20322,00.html)

Johnstone, Carroll on the market
09 October 2007 Herald Sun
Mark Stevens

MELBOURNE has delivered a loud wake-up call to Travis Johnstone and Nathan Carroll, putting both up for trade.
Johnstone, the Demons' 2005 best-and-fairest winner, had last night attracted interest from at least two clubs and will be moved on if the price is right.
Carroll, a key defender in All-Australian contention as recently as last year, has not yet sparked significant interest.
Both are under contract next year and will stay at the Demons if deals are not struck, but the fact they are on the market is a strong statement by new coach Dean Bailey.
The Demons want the enigmatic Johnstone, 27, to become more consistent. Carroll, 27 next month, has been involved in two post-season incidents overseas in recent weeks.
Melbourne football manager Chris Connolly said last night Bailey had been open and frank with Johnstone about his future.
"Travis has got to take stock in terms of becoming a consistent, elite midfielder," Connolly said.
"Dean spoke to him clearly. He is contracted to Melbourne and will play for Melbourne unless someone is prepared to give up what we know he's worth and give him the opportunities he's looking for."
The Demons have been happy to make Johnstone's status public, with recruiting manager Craig Cameron yesterday declaring: "We don't use our players as bait, but Travis's name is out there."
Connolly said the Demons would have a strong focus on youth heading into the Bailey era.
"We're doing our forward planning around the age group of 22," Connolly said.
"We would be looking for draft picks or a quality player of that age bracket (22) for us to consider moving Travis on."
Although reports have suggested Johnstone was not in hot demand, Connolly said clubs were starting to swoop.
"There's been a lot of interest. Solid interest," he said.
Connolly would not name clubs, but it is understood Sydney is one to show interest.
Fremantle is believed to have shown early interest in Johnstone before trade period, but has dropped off.
"Clubs want to strengthen their midfield. He can really play. He's a class player," Connolly said.
Johnstone was the No. 1 national draft pick in 1997 and has played 160 games. Affected by an achilles injury this year, Johnstone managed only 15 games and could not make the top 10 in the Demons' best-and-fairest.

Link (http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,22561094-11088,00.html)

Demons, Travis Johnstone to meet
Article from: Herald Sun
Mark Stevens
October 10, 2007 12:00am

TRAVIS Johnstone is due back from Bangkok today for key discussions on his future.
The talented Melbourne midfielder will meet with his manager Alex McDonald as speculation about a possible trade continues.

Melbourne has confirmed Johnstone is up for trade, but only for a high draft pick or quality young player in return.

Johnstone remains committed to the Demons at this stage and has not told them he wants to be traded.

Although he remains in contract, the 2005 best-and-fairest winner could ask the club to find him a new home.

"He's back in town tomorrow and we'll sit down and work through all the issues," McDonald said.

"Melbourne have made it very clear they could trade Travis if the right deal comes up.

"You wouldn't have thought 95 per cent of players would be in that boat, anyway.

"Ultimately, Travis holds the cards. He's contracted and he has to agree if a deal is to take place."

Melbourne has said there had been interest for Johnstone, who has a rare ability to inflict damage on opposition when on song.

Link (http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,22562720-5003410,00.html)

Brisbane hoping to get Melbourne star Travis Johnstone
Article from: http://www.news.com.au/images/sources/h14_thecouriermail.gif (http://www.thecouriermail.news.com.au/?from=ni_story)
Andrew Hamilton
October 11, 2007 12:00am

BRISBANE is plotting a trade week coup that could secure Melbourne's former No.1 draft pick and best and fairest Travis Johnstone.
Johnstone and his manager Alex McDonald were in Brisbane yesterday as guests of the club. If Johnstone likes what he sees and the Lions are happy with his asking price, they could on-trade pick 14 to Melbourne for the 167-game Demon's services.
Johnstone was top draft pick in 1997 and the 2005 best and fairest but the new Melbourne regime of head coach Dean Bailey and football operations manager, former Dockers coach Chris Connolly, has made it known they would be open to a trade.

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/3213/johnstonewq4.jpg

Link (http://www.realfooty.com.au/news/news/demon-back-in-melbourne-but-not-for-long/2007/10/09/1191695909397.html)

Demon back in Melbourne, but not for long
Michael Gleeson
October 10, 2007

TRAVIS Johnstone stepped off a plane from Thailand last night to decide where he wants to play football next year. It is unlikely to be at Melbourne.
The Brisbane Lions and Sydney are among the clubs to have expressed keen interest in the classy midfielder, with the Lions believed to be the strongest candidate to acquire the Demons' former No. 1 draft pick.
Johnstone remains tied to Melbourne for 2008 on a substantial contract, which could be the main obstacle to a deal. There was speculation last night that Johnstone, should he agree to move north, could be traded to Brisbane for pick 14, which the Lions would be likely to receive from Collingwood for ruckman Cameron Wood.

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/8973/johnstonehi4.jpg

http://img352.imageshack.us/img352/63/johnstone10sj9.jpg

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/2676/johnstone11bv7.jpg

http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/1306/johnstone12no4.jpg

http://img159.imageshack.us/img159/8103/johnstone13jt6.jpg

Sherminator.

11 Oct 2007, 18:44

http://img110.imageshack.us/img110/6771/33339146gk0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Grimreepah

11 Oct 2007, 18:45

Link*

Three Team Trade
October 11th 2007 08:38

This could be a trade where everyone wins. Cameron Wood goes to Collingwood, Travis Johnstone goes to Brisbane and pick 14 is now owned by Melbourne.
Travis Johnstone might get a bit of a shock, as he is used to the relaxed atmosphere they had at Melbourne under Daniher, and he now enters Lethal's realm. But there could be something that makes it a smooth transition for Johnstone, he and Coach Matthews have a connection through Chelsea, Victoria so they might have a bit in common.
Johnstone also has some new teammates who know how to play, so Johnstone won't be a number 1 pick trying to get a team to a premiership for the first time in many decades, he is now a complimentary player to Power, Black, Lappin and some of their young onballers like Rischitelli and Adcock. It’s all up to Johnstone, but the fresh start should be good for him .

Link (http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,22564873-5012432,00.html)

The trading for Wood appears set to go through because the Magpies yesterday informed preliminary final ruckman Guy Richards that his contract would not be renewed. Collingwood had earlier held an interest in untried 200cm Sydney ruckman Daniel Currie.
If the Pies recruit Wood with their first pick, Brisbane will on-trade selection No14 to the Demons for Johnstone, the club's best-and-fairest winner in 2005.
Part of that deal would involve Melbourne paying a percentage of Johnstone's 2008 remuneration of about $400,000.

http://img250.imageshack.us/img250/6928/johnstonepx0.jpg

Raav

11 Oct 2007, 18:47

You guys don't waste time.
I like this trade.

Grimreepah

11 Oct 2007, 18:58

Link (http://www.afl.com.au/Season2007/News/NewsArticle/tabid/208/Default.aspx?newsId=52400)

Johnstone travelling north
5:16 PM Thu
11 October, 2007

THE Brisbane Lions have secured classy Melbourne midfielder Travis Johnstone in a deal which will see the Demons gain selection No.14 in the 2007 NAB AFL Draft.
The Demons received pick No.14, after the Lions gained that pick when they traded ruckman Cameron Wood to Collingwood.
Effectively, this is what the trade means for each club:
Brisbane Lions – Travis Johnstone.
Collingwood – Cameron Wood.
Melbourne – No.14 (player yet to be known).
Melbourne general manager of recruiting and list management Craig Cameron praised Johnstone's services to the club, but was excited by the prospect of another selection inside the top 15.
"We would like to thank Travis for his services to the Melbourne Football Club over the past decade and we wish him all the very best with his new opportunity at the Brisbane Lions," Cameron told melbournefc.com.au.
"We now have another first round selection in this year's draft, which will allow us to have another good opportunity to select a promising young talent."
Johnstone played 160 matches and booted 111 goals after making his AFL debut in 1998. He was originally drafted as the No.1 selection in 1997.
A member of Melbourne's 2000 Grand Final side, Johnstone also won the club's best-and-fairest award – the Keith 'Bluey' Truscott Trophy – in 2005.
An achilles injury interrupted Johnstone's second half of the 2007 season, although his final match for Melbourne included a career-best 42 disposals off half-back against Carlton.
Johnstone is the highest profile Melbourne player to shift clubs since Shane Woewodin was traded to Collingwood at the end of the 2002 season – coincidentally for selection No.14, which resulted in the recruitment of defender Daniel Bell.

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/4541/johnstonemq1.jpg

Link (http://lions.com.au/Season2007/News/NewsArticle/tabid/5085/Default.aspx?newsId=52406)

Johnstone joins the Lions
6:03 PM Thu 11 October, 2007
for lions.com.au

Travis Johnstone has officially joined the Vodafone Brisbane Lions after a trade was struck between the Lions and his previous club Melbourne today.

Johnstone was traded from Melbourne in return for a first round selection (pick No.14 overall) in the 2007 National Draft which was earlier secured by the Lions from Collingwood in exchange for ruckman Cameron Wood.

The Lions were thrilled to acquire Johnstone who played 160 games and kicked 111 goals in ten years with the Demons. The gifted 27 year-old midfielder played in 15 matches for the Demons this season averaging 19.6 disposals.

Johnstone was selected with pick No.1 in the 1997 National Draft and has since made a name for himself for his pristine disposal.

He was a Rising Star nominee in 1998, Melbourne’s best and fairest winner in 2005, finished equal fourth in the Brownlow Medal in 2002 and was part of the Demons’ 2000 Grand Final side.

His experience, ball winning ability and silky smooth skills will be an asset for the Lions midfield in future seasons.

Johnstone brings with him an already strong connection to the club. His grandfather Norm played 228 senior matches for the Lions between 1944 and 1957 and he was named ruck-rover of the Fitzroy Team of Our Century.

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/2554/johnstonemc9.jpg

Link (http://geelong.keldar.net/Articles/11102007_1.php)

JOHNSTONE JOINS LIONS

The Lions were 'thrilled' to acquire 160 gamer Johnstone, who has kicked 111 goals in ten years with the Demons. Johnstone played 15 matches for the Demons this season, averaging just under 20 disposals.

Johnstone was selected with pick No.1 in the 1997 National Draft and has since made a name for himself for his pristine disposal but was prone to go missing for weeks at a time. He was a Norwich Rising Star nominee in 1998, Melbourne's best and fairest winner in 2005, finished equal fourth in the Brownlow Medal in 2002 and was part of the Demons' 2000 losing Grand Final side.

Johnstone brings with him a connection to the club. His grandfather Norm played 228 senior matches for the Lions between 1944 and 1957 and he was named ruck-rover of the Fitzroy Team of Our Century.

http://img105.imageshack.us/img105/5371/johnstoneou4.jpg

Thommo 42

11 Oct 2007, 19:00

nice that you don't have to pay all his $$ too.

FFB1

11 Oct 2007, 19:18

nice that you don't have to pay all his $$ too.

Let's hope it doesnt end up 'David Bourke' like.

TheBrownDog

11 Oct 2007, 21:15

Obviously wont get the Number 16 jumper here (unless he wants to fight the big fella for it.)

Wonder what number his grandfather wore for Fitzroy?

Snuka

11 Oct 2007, 21:19

To put a sickeningly positive spin on this...has been in the top 1 or 2 mids at Melbourne for many years (on talent anyway) but will now be relegated to about 4th or 5th. Could do wonders for him...love to see him moving to a HFF on occasions or running into 50 from the wing.

Grimreepah

11 Oct 2007, 21:52

Travis' grandad is Norm Johnstone.

Link (http://www.fitzroyfc.com.au/toc_nominees.htm)

Norm Johnstone played 228 games for Fitzroy between 1944 and 1957. He kicked 195 goals in his career where he alternated between the following division and the forward line. He even led the Fitzroy goalkicking in 1955 with 32 goals. He played in three finals games in 1947 and 1952 and represented Victoria in 1948. He won Fitzroy’s best and fairest award in 1947. Johnstone was considered a very tough footballer by his peers. He was Fitzroy’s vice-captain for a number of years. His grandson Travis Johnstone currently plays for Melbourne. He was selected in a forward pocket in Fitzroy’s greatest team from 1944 to 1993.

Link (http://images.google.com.au/imgres?imgurl=http://www.fullpointsfooty.net/images/NJohnstoneFitz.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.fullpointsfooty.net/i-j.htm&h=332&w=197&sz=42&hl=en&start=1&tbnid=0L61J8rrwc1tvM:&tbnh=119&tbnw=71&prev=/images%3Fq%3DNorm%2BJohnstone%2BFitzroy%26gbv%3D2%26svnum%3D 10%26hl%3Den%26safe%3Doff%26sa%3DG)

Fitzroy recruited Norman Johnstone from Chelsea and he gave the club excellent service in 228 VFL games between 1944 and 1957. Heftily built at 183cm and 92kg he was nevertheless extremely pacy, and was not frightened of using his weight. Always reliable, he won Fitzroy's best and fairest award in 1947, and was a VFL interstate representative. He played for most of his career as a ruckman, while his career tally of 195 goals attests to the fact that he was always dangerous when resting in the forward lines. Indeed, his season's total of 32 goals in 1955 was good enough for him to top the Fitzroy list.

http://img487.imageshack.us/img487/791/johnstonedz2.jpg

Snuka

11 Oct 2007, 21:55

Can't wait to see Norm running around for the Lions next year. Looks great in the heritage strip too!

blynd_freddie

11 Oct 2007, 21:57

Obviously wont get the Number 16 jumper here (unless he wants to fight the big fella for it.)

Wonder what number his grandfather wore for Fitzroy?

TBD, I believe Norm Johnstone initially wore #16 in 1944 and 1945 then for the rest of his career 1946 to 1957 wore #17 :eek:

Sherminator.

11 Oct 2007, 22:00

Give him #4. :)

TheBrownDog

11 Oct 2007, 22:05

TBD, I believe Norm Johnstone initially wore #16 in 1944 and 1945 then for the rest of his career 1946 to 1957 wore #17 :eek:

17 may be available. :eek:

Grimreepah

11 Oct 2007, 22:21

TBD, I believe Norm Johnstone initially wore #16 in 1944 and 1945 then for the rest of his career 1946 to 1957 wore #17 :eek:

Good work Fred. I like it.:thumbsu:

blynd_freddie

11 Oct 2007, 22:25

You never know Brownys old man wore #2 at Fitzroy.... :eek::eek:

Fairley

11 Oct 2007, 22:54

Trav wore bright red nomis boots when playing for the demons this year, which colour do you think he will opt for with us? i'm going either blue or yellow, hopefully yellow.

Kochie 16

11 Oct 2007, 23:03

I like this trade!

Lets hope he can play well for us aswell!

Grimreepah

12 Oct 2007, 01:37

Link (http://realfooty.com.au/news/news/mcmahon-picks-tigers-over-port/2007/10/11/1191696082792.html?page=2)

Eventually, Wood went to Collingwood for selection 14 alone, with the Lions on-trading the pick to Melbourne for Travis Johnstone, who agreed to a three-year deal with the Lions. It is believed that next season, Melbourne will pay half of the $400,000 he was contracted to it for in 2008.

Link (http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,22571159-5013406,00.html)

Johnstone, 27, was to have been one of Melbourne's highest-paid players next season, and the Demons will pay a substantial amount, believed to be approximately half of his 2008 remuneration of about $400,000. He has agreed to a three-year contract from Brisbane.

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/733/johnstonega6.jpg

Grimreepah

12 Oct 2007, 02:00

Link (http://realfooty.com.au/news/news/johnstone-heads-to-lions/2007/10/11/1191696082798.html)

Johnstone heads to Lions, a 'scary' move
Michael Gleeson
October 12, 2007

TRAVIS Johnstone's life has been built on several certainties: he would live among friends in and around Chelsea, he would play his football at Melbourne and he would be the first tagged player every week.
All these thing changed yesterday.
Johnstone will now move to Brisbane in weeks, play his football with the Lions and attract the attention of jumper-tuggers alternatively with Simon Black, Luke Power or Nigel Lappin.
He will enjoy facilities the likes of which he barely knew existed and be coached by a man equal parts terrifying and charismatic. He will also kick the ball to the best forward, if not the best player, in the competition.
"There is no doubt it is a pretty scary move, especially making a move like this when you are 27," Johnstone said.
"I have lived most of my life around Chelsea and, for the first couple of days, I have been pretty blown away by the idea of having to go and live somewhere else.
"There are people at Melbourne who have been like part of my family, so I have been a bit emotional over the last few days. But since I went up there and saw Leigh and saw the facilities they have and he took me through the list and what they have, I am pretty excited.
"I feel my best footy is in front of me and … they said they want me to lead and they expect a lot out of me and I am happy with that kind of pressure."
Accepting the reality that he would not be a one-club player was one of the bigger hurdles for Johnstone when pre-trade whispers eventuated into more than than just speculation.
"My biggest issue was I always wanted to be a one-club player," he said. "When I went to Brisbane and saw Leigh, he asked me what I was thinking and I said I always wanted to be a one-club player. He said if I wanted to come, he wanted to have me."
When a person such as Leigh Matthews says he wants you, it carries some weight. Everyone wants to be wanted, but being wanted by a revered figure such as Matthews is somehow more compelling.
"There is no doubt it is going to help playing alongside Simon Black and Lukey Power and Nigel Lappin. I have been tagged week-in week-out pretty much since I started and it has been pretty tough. I have probably not had the players around me in the midfield, so maybe now they can go to someone else.
"I was looking forward to a whole fresh new start at Melbourne with a new coach and I had spoken to the coach (Dean Bailey) and he was going to play me off a half-back flank and now I am going to Brisbane and I will be getting a fresh start."

http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/5536/johnstoneof1.jpg

TheBrownDog

12 Oct 2007, 02:04

I was worried about how Adcock would go next year as he was sure to attract the attention of taggers.

Johnstone is going to help free up our midfield so much. :thumbsu:

Grimreepah

12 Oct 2007, 02:59

Link (http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,22572674-11088,00.html)

Melbourne fans' anger over Travis Johnstone trade
Article from: http://www.news.com.au/images/sources/h14_heraldsun.gif (http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/?from=ni_story)
Mark Stevens
October 12, 2007 12:00am

MELBOURNE suffered a Demons supporter backlash late yesterday after Travis Johnstone became a Brisbane Lion.
Club staff took phone calls from angry supporters in scenes reminiscent of the dramatic day that Brownlow medallist Shane Woewodin was offloaded to Collingwood in 2002.

Johnstone was hugely popular despite off-field issues and frustrations over his inconsistent performances.

Melbourne list manager Craig Cameron said he could understand the sensitivity of fans.

"It's always a tough one when you trade out a player of that quality," Cameron said.

"Travis is a favourite player of a lot of our supporters. It's a difficult day for a lot of our supporters."

Although the Demons were tight-lipped, it is understood off-field issues were a factor in Johnstone's move.

When asked if the talented midfielder was a high-maintenance player, Cameron said: "He probably was at times, but he's not the only one that can be high maintenance."

Cameron said the club wanted to build its list, concentrating on players aged 23 or under. Johnstone, the 2005 best-and-fairest winner, is 28 next year.

"A new coach (Dean Bailey) coming in gives you a chance to rejuvenate your list," Cameron said. "In the next couple of years we'll probably see a few others depart.

"I think the move will be positive for Travis - different environment, structure and (it's) interstate.

"It will be difficult for him initially because when he did come to us he was still just a schoolboy."

For all his brilliance, Johnstone had only two top 10 best-and-fairest finishes in 160 games at the Demons.

Cameron confirmed Sydney and Fremantle had "nibbled" at Johnstone, but not significantly.

The Lions took the bait, eventually using the No. 14 pick they received from Collingwood for ruckman Cameron Wood.

http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/6609/johnstoneiq7.jpg

Tim the Toolman

12 Oct 2007, 12:44

Does this mean he's officially now known as "Normy"?

Grimreepah

12 Oct 2007, 12:57

Does this mean he's officially now known as "Normy"?

I've heard Melbourne fans refer to him as 'Trapper'.

Grimreepah

12 Oct 2007, 17:54

Link (http://lions.com.au/Season2007/News/NewsArticle/tabid/5085/Default.aspx?newsId=52442)

“The opportunity to pick up a top grade experienced midfielder doesn't come around too often,” Senior Coach Leigh Matthews said.
“Therefore sacrificing a young developing ruckman in Cameron Wood was judged to be a reasonable trade from the Lions’ point of view. We have been able to obtain Travis Johnstone at a very reasonable cost because the Melbourne Football Club will be paying for the majority of his first year contract”.

Link (http://lions.com.au/Season2007/News/NewsArticle/tabid/5085/Default.aspx?newsId=52524)

Matthews was clearly chuffed with securing Johnstone in Trade Week.
"Whenever we played Melbourne one of my first thoughts was to how do we make sure that Travis is not an influence on the game - he was a very dangerous opposition player," Matthews said.
Johnstone, 27, relished the chance to join a midfield boasting the class of Simon Black, Nigel Lappin and Luke Power.
"It's going to help my football being around such quality players," he said.
"Being around such hard workers, there's going to be a lot of pressure on me and I will enjoy that."

http://img212.imageshack.us/img212/6627/johnstoneui1.jpg

BigCat2

12 Oct 2007, 23:19

Trapper's profile has already been added to the Lions official website.

gwono

13 Oct 2007, 14:33

From: http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,22577067-11088,00.html
Johnstone happy to celebrate Lions heritage

Gareth Trickey and Andrew Hamilton
October 13, 2007 12:00am

TRAVIS Johnstone says he almost broke down when he cleaned out his locker at the Melbourne Football Club yesterday.
Johnstone, who is headed to the Brisbane Lions in a trade for pick 14, said agreeing to the trade was one of the hardest decisions he has ever made.
The move to the Lions den will see Melbourne's 2005 best-and-fairest follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, Fitzroy 1947 best-and-fairest and Lions Team of the Century member Norman Johnstone.
"It was a weird feeling to be put in a situation to have to make a decision like that, but once I made the decision I felt really excited," Johnstone said.
"I was at the club this morning to clean out my locker and say goodbye to everyone and I nearly started crying because I've been there for so long and the club has been so good to me.
"Melbourne brought me into the AFL world and looked after me well, but now I have a huge opportunity to go to a successful club and get to play with some quality players.
"I hope that rubs off on me and I can help Brisbane get to the finals."
Johnstone, 27, told his grandfather on Thursday night about his move.
"He doesn't usually show much emotion, but I think he's quietly proud that I can wear the same jumper that he wore," Johnstone said.
Melbourne's decision to offload Johnstone resulted in a flurry of phone calls from angry Demons fans.
Johnstone, who played 160 games for the Dees, said the member backlash proved Melbourne was a passionate, tight-knit football club.
"It just shows how strong the supporters are for Melbourne and I think that gets questioned a fair bit," he said.
Norm Johnstone played 228 games with the Lions between 1944 and 1957. The family, although obviously forming a connection with Melbourne while Travis was a Demon, are old Fitzroy people who have taken to the Brisbane Lions since the merger.
"They were all Fitzroy, and they've supported Brisbane and gone to functions since the Lions formed," Johnstone said.
"Mum and dad, nan and pop are all pretty excited. They would have backed me whichever way I went, but there is that connection there."
In some ways Johnstone bucks the trend.
Many Victorians are not that impressed with the idea of leaving the so-called footy capital of Melbourne to head to Brisbane.
And then there's Queensland's famed heat, which takes its toll on many pale-skinned southerners.
But the No. 1 pick in the 1997 draft couldn't be happier.
"They think they are not far off having a fair crack," he said.
"They have a good spread of players at a good age. I've watched them a fair bit and, after the performances of the last 12 months, they are right up there, not far away at all."

http://www.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,,5699856,00.gif

He looks almost better than me in my Guensey.

Sherminator.

13 Oct 2007, 14:39

Good article, what's wrong with his arm? Better be ready for NAB Cup! :):thumbsu:

Oh, 2008, come quickly!

Grimreepah

13 Oct 2007, 14:41

Link (http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,22578254-5006065,00.html)

Melbourne's Travis Johnstone said agreeing to his trade to the Brisbane Lions was one of the hardest decisions he's ever had to make.
Johnstone said he almost broke down when he cleaned out his locker at the Melbourne Football Club yesterday.
The move to the Lions den will see Melbourne's 2005 best-and-fairest follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, Fitzroy best-and-fairest (1947) and Lions Team of the Century member Norman Johnstone.
"It was a weird feeling to be put in a situation to have to make a decision like that, but once I made the decision I felt really excited," Johnstone said.
"Melbourne brought me into the AFL world and looked after me well, but now I have a huge opportunity to go to a successful club and get to play with some quality players.
"I hope that rubs off on me and I can help Brisbane get to the finals."

http://img250.imageshack.us/img250/3288/johnstonevp6.jpg

Tears turn to joy: Travis Johnstone admits he almost broke down after cleaning out his locker at Melbourne yesterday, but now that he has made the decision to join the Brisbane Lions he is excited to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, Lions Team of the Century member Norm Johnstone.

dlanod

13 Oct 2007, 18:02

I'd love to get five years out of him... father-son, here we come! ;)

Grimreepah

13 Oct 2007, 18:58

Link (http://www.realfooty.com.au/news/news/trades-in-full/2007/10/12/1191696179568.html)

THE WASH-UP: UP Traded out a talented young ruckman, which is always a fraught decision given their rarity, for a 27-year-old midfielder with a wayward streak. If Wood plays 150 games for Collingwood, Johnstone will have to play some exceptional football in his final years to justify the decision.

OldLion

13 Oct 2007, 21:27

Was introduced to Norm and his wife at the Fitzroy bash this year - we were admiring the painting at the time .. they're Royboys thru' and thru'. Good stuff.

BigCat2

13 Oct 2007, 22:19

THE WASH-UP: UP Traded out a talented young ruckman, which is always a fraught decision given their rarity, for a 27-year-old midfielder with a wayward streak. If Wood plays 150 games for Collingwood, Johnstone will have to play some exceptional football in his final years to justify the decision.

I don't necessarily agree with the last bit. If getting Johnstone means we get a flag in the next few years, then it's well worth it.

notliondown

14 Oct 2007, 13:13

Welcome aboard Travis!

The Lions have a pretty good record of getting the best out of other teams players... Pikey, Michael, Patfull... theres a pretty good pedigree. And lets face it... hes got a lot of footy left in him... and good stuff too I'd bet with the right motivation and support around him.

Damn it'll be be good to have another quality midfielder for the opposition to try and match up on.... Lappin, Power, Black, Adcock, Johnstone, Rishca... throw in some good wingman and we're gonna be stretching some teams pretty thin.

Nice!

Grimreepah

16 Oct 2007, 14:14

http://img91.imageshack.us/img91/9886/johnstoneyt2.jpg

melbournelife

16 Oct 2007, 18:04

he had some ligaments or tendons reattached. all up a 3 month recovery

eliasd82

16 Oct 2007, 18:13

Gonna be a star for Brisbane... Will fit very well in your midfield... should play 4-5 years cause he is an outside player.
Well Done Lions.

Miss ya TJ -

Grimreepah

16 Oct 2007, 18:22

Link (http://sportal.com.au/default.aspx/afl-news-display/senior-lions-impress-johnstone-37341)

Senior Lions impress Johnstone
16/10/2007 2:59:20 PM
Marc Fox
Sportal

It took only 48 hours - albeit including a couple of sleepless nights - for Travis Johnstone to decide to swap Melbourne for Brisbane with the former Demons midfielder revealing he considers the Lions genuine premiership contenders over coming seasons.
From receiving word that the club was interested last Tuesday - while in Bangkok on a post-season football trip - to firming up the switch on Thursday after a whirlwind visit to Brisbane, the former No.1 draft pick didn't exactly hang around.
Johnstone said he had expected to stay with the Dees and work under new coach Dean Bailey, who replaced Neale Daniher at the end of the season, saying he always believed he would 'play at one club and one club only'.
But a mixture of the Lions' famed facilities, a chance to play with some of the finest midfielders in the competition and a long-time family connection with Fitzroy made Melbourne's 2005 best and fairest winner reconsider his options.
"At first I thought I'd be in Melbourne's plans … but I think my name got thrown around a bit and Brisbane showed so much interest," Johnstone explained. "When I came up and had a look around and caught up with a few of the guys … I think it's a pretty good decision on my behalf."
Johnstone's grandfather, Norm Johnstone, a Fitzroy team of the century member, played 228 games for the Lions between 1944 and 1957 and the family has continued to support the Lions since the merger.
But it wasn't purely an emotional attachment which started the 2000 grand finalist pondering a move north.
In last Wednesday's get-together with Simon Black and Luke Power, the Lions co-captains said all the right things about joining them in Brisbane's star-studded midfield.
"To have guys like that saying to you we want you to come and play for us, I was a bit overwhelmed by that," the 27-year-old said. "But I think I can bring a fair bit to this team which is going to help out the midfield group and the whole team."
As well as his silky skills, another area could be an official leadership role, especially given Chris Johnson, one of the five members of last year's leadership group, retired at the end of the season.
It is understood some of the senior Lions have already expressed a preference for Johnstone to take on some form of captaincy role within the team.
However, he will be just as happy blending into the background after being constantly picked out over his 10-year Demons career.
"Back at Melbourne I was getting the No.1 tag nearly every week and it was pretty hard," he said. "With such a quality midfield it's going to be harder for teams to choose which player to be sat on."
Johnstone finished with a rare glimpse of the perception of the 2001-2003 premiership kings.
"When I was at Melbourne last year we thought Brisbane might have had their time," he admitted. "But they showed in that second-half (of the season) that they'll be a real force to be reckoned with this coming season."
"They've just got so much quality and even their younger guys have stepped right up. They look like future champions."

http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/5760/johnstoneij5.jpg

Link (http://realfooty.com.au/news/news/former-demon-lionised/2007/10/16/1192300769686.html)

Former Demon now breathing fire for Lions
Laine Clark
October 16, 2007

For a player who once thought the Lions were past their best and wanted to remain a Melbourne Demon for life, Travis Johnstone still couldn't hide his excitement after being officially unveiled as Brisbane's new trump card today.
Johnstone, 27, played 160 games in 10 years with the Demons and was the first to admit today that he wanted to extend his stint under new coach Dean Bailey.
The former No.1 draft pick and Melbourne's 2005 best and fairest winner said he wanted nothing more than to be a one club player.
But a quick trip to Brisbane quickly changed Johnstone's perspective.
Told the Lions were interested, Johnstone returned home from an end of season footy trip to Thailand and 24 hours after visiting Brisbane agreed to a trade deal.
"I was extremely nervous at the start when I was speaking to Simon Black and Luke Power, to have guys like that saying they want you to come and play for us, I was a bit overwhelmed by that," said Johnstone who went to Brisbane in a trade for pick 14.
"I am so privileged to come to a team like this. I think I can bring a fair bit to this team."
Johnstone also changed tack on three-time champions Brisbane's prospects after watching the rebuilding Lions bounce back from an ordinary 2006 and come within a whisker of the 2007 finals.
"When I was in Melbourne last year we thought Brisbane might have had their time," he said.
"But they have shown in that second half they are a real force to be reckoned with in the coming season.
"Their younger guys have stepped up and look like future champions, and also they get (forward Daniel) Bradshaw back (from a knee injury).
"If we can stay fit and healthy we could give it a fair shake."
Johnstone - a 2000 grand finalist with Melbourne - even went as far to say as Brisbane offered his best chance of winning a premiership flag.
"It is probably going to be the closest I can get to one," he said.
"It's going to help my football too being around such quality players.
"In Melbourne I was getting the No.1 tagger every week and it was pretty hard.
"To come up here, with such a quality midfield, it's going to be harder for teams to choose which player to set on."
Lions coach Leigh Matthews ruled out Johnstone replacing the retired Chris Johnson on their captaincy group but said the midfielder would still play a key leadership role.
"The key issue with leadership is the example that you set," Matthews said.
"And as a really well performed player in the competition all of our younger players will look to what Travis does, how he goes about things."
Johnstone follows in the footsteps of his grandfather, Fitzroy 1947 best-and-fairest and Lions Team of the Century member Norman Johnstone.
"It's pretty special. My grandfather played for them and now I get the opportunity," he said.
"I didn't think I ever would. One my big things was to play at one club and one club only - (but) I was pretty fortunate for Brisbane to be keen on me."

http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/7108/johnstonehb9.jpg

Snuka

16 Oct 2007, 20:08

Ya know you try not to get in the speculation and 'exodus' talk that goes on on BF and occasionally in the media but...it is just so bloody good to hear someone actually happy to come to Brisbane and talking up the blokes that make up our team & staff. You would think with the success the team has had and the many respected players at the Lions that we would see it more often.

Raav

16 Oct 2007, 20:24

He need to change the colour of his cast.
Still stuck on the demon red.

Grimreepah

17 Oct 2007, 02:00

Link (http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/news/sport/johnstone-just-one-of-the-boys/2007/10/16/1192300749484.html)

Johnstone just one of the boys
Phil Lutton
October 16, 2007 - 3:22PM

For a player so used to being on centre stage, new Brisbane Lion Travis Johnstone says he can't wait to blend into the crowd.
Not just any crowd, mind you. Johnson is the latest addition to Brisbane's star-studded midfield and can't wait to share the attention of opposing taggers with his decorated colleagues.
The Lions unveiled their star signing at The Gabba today, with the 27-year-old former Demon - acquired in a trade deal that sent ruckman Cameron Wood to Collingwood - expressing his delight at suiting up next to some of the AFL's biggest names.
And he hopes the taggers that have hounded his every move since he shot to prominence in his 10 years at Junction Oval will divert their attentions as he tries to help Brisbane stride back into the AFL finals.
"In Melbourne I was getting the number one tagger every week and it was pretty hard. To come up here, with such a quality midfield, it's going to be harder for teams to choose which player to set on," Johnstone said.
Johnstone, sporting a cast for a chipped bone in his right arm that is due to come off tomorrow, could be the extra five percent coach Leigh Matthews is looking for in a group that narrowly missed finals football in 2007.
Johnston's silky ball skills and distribution will be eagerly welcomed by Jonathan Brown and the returning Daniel Bradshaw, with Matthews saying he's glad the experienced midfielder is finally in Lions colours instead of tormenting them.
"I know that whenever we play Melbourne, one of my first thoughts is how to make sure Travis isn't an influence on the game. When a player like that becomes a possibility of bringing into your group, that's a fair starting point," Matthews said.
"One thing we know for certain, when Travis has got the ball in his hands he uses it really well, left or right foot. I would have thought our guys forward of the ball are going to be looking forward to having the ball in Travis' hands."
Johnston said he was disappointed at being deemed surplus to requirements under new Demons coach Dean Bailey but but was elated to join the Lions and follow in the footsteps of his grandfather Norman Johnstone, who was Fitzroy's 1947 best-and-fairest and a Lions Team of the Century member.
He first got wind of the proposed move as he was to board a plane at Bangkok airport after an end of season trip with his former team-mates.
A meeting his his manager on arrival in Australia and a visit to Brisbane the following day, where he was courted by Lion's heavyweights Simon Black and Luke Power, was enough to convince Johnstone to make the move north.
"At first I thought I'd be in Melbourne's plans. I had a bit of a meeting with the coach and was feeling positive. But the way things turned out, I think my name got thrown around a bit and Brisbane showed so much interest," Johnstone said.
"I came up and had a look around and caught up with a few of the guys. I think it was a pretty good decision on my behalf.
"I was extremely nervous at the start when I was speaking to Simon Black and Luke Power, to have guys like that saying they want you to come and play for us. I was a bit overwhelmed by that.
"It's going to be a really exciting time ahead for all of us. I think I can bring a fair bit to this team that's going to help the midfield group and the whole team.
"Coming to here, with my grandfather playing for them, I get the opportunity too. I didn't think I ever would. One of my big things was to play at one club and one club only.
"I'm pretty fortunate that Brisbane were pretty keen to have me and I can't wait to return the favour of the faith they've shown in me."
Johnstone confessed that as a Demon last year, he thought the struggling Lions may have had their day. But Brisbane's late-season resurgence convinced him that the side can be a genuine threat come September if all the pieces remain in place.
"When I was at Melbourne last year we thought that Brisbane might have had their time. But they showed that second half they're a real force to be reckoned with this coming season.
"The players that stood up - we'll get Bradshaw back - there's so much quality. Even the younger guys stood up and look like future champions. I'm just so privilege to come to a team like this, we're they're not going to be far away.
"If we all stay fit and healthy I think we can give it a good shake again."
Matthews sees Johnstone, who finished fourth in the 2002 Brownlow count and played in a grand final in 2000, as a pivotal part of the leadership team but won't add him to the captain's list this season, even though one of the five club captains - Chris Johnson - has retired.
"That's not what we brought Travis up for. The key issue with leadership is the example that you set. In terms of a more formal leadership role, I couldn't see that," Matthews said.
"It's his first year at the club. But he is a player that will be in our half a dozen senior players. And as a really well performed player in the competition all of our younger players will look to what Travis does, how he goes about things."

http://img240.imageshack.us/img240/1623/johnstoneag6.jpg

Grimreepah

17 Oct 2007, 02:31

Link (http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/footy/common/story_page/0,8033,22599140%255E19746,00.html)

Johnstone's signing is a coup for the Lions and a no-brainer according to Matthews who said the trade was fair and reasonable for all parties.
The Lions gained Johnstone after trading pick No. 14 to the Demons after Brisbane gave ruckman Cameron Wood the green light to go to Collingwood.
While Wood goes with Matthews' blessing, the coach was disappointed to lose Richard Hadley to Carlton.
Johnstone, though, says he's genuinely excited to be joining an all-star midfield.
The 27-year-old said the toughest moment in the trade deal was when he rang long-time friend and Melbourne captain David Neitz.
Johnstone told Neitz of Brisbane's desire to lure him north as the pair boarded a plane in Bangkok after the Demons' end-of-season trip.
"He was a bit shocked and once I got home and had my decision, I wanted to ring 'Neiter' and he was disappointed," Johnstone said.
Brisbane's players are thrilled with Johnstone's arrival and already Luke Power has contacted him about a leadership role.
Matthews agrees Johnstone will play an important role at the Lions.
"Whenever we play Melbourne, one of our first thoughts was making sure Travis isn't an influence on the game and he was a very dangerous opposition player," Matthews said. "It gives us another high-quality midfielder when you need as many high-quality midfielders as you can get.
"The key issue of leadership is the example that you set and all the younger players will look at Travis and the pressure will be on Travis and the example he sets."
Johnstone says he's intending to start pre-season training with the Lions despite having undergone an operation on his arm.
The cast on his right arm will be removed next week following an operation for a chipped bone that the former Demon suffered this year.
"I feel very privileged and we can give it a fair shake," Johnstone said.

http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/5559/johnstonedi6.jpg

Grimreepah

17 Oct 2007, 12:15

Link (http://lions.com.au/Season2007/News/NewsArticle/tabid/5085/Default.aspx?newsId=52546)

Johnstone breaks the cycle
8:38 AM Wed 17 October, 2007
By Simon White

FOUR DAYS after the Brisbane Lions' season-ending loss to Geelong, coach Leigh Matthews fronted the media and spoke of two issues facing his side.
One was the need to recruit more quality midfielders. The other was the challenge associated with trying to lure Victorian players north during the trade period.
"We forget about the trade period – if a number of clubs want a player, he's not coming to Brisbane and I don't think it's about our climate," Matthews said at the time.
On Tuesday, at the Gabba, Matthews faced the media again, this time flank by a player who will help the Lions address both issues.
By trading for former Melbourne player and 2005 club champion Travis Johnstone, the Lions add another high quality midfielder to a running brigade that already boasts All-Australians Simon Black, Luke Power and Nigel Lappin.
The cycle of Melbourne-based players ignoring trade overtures from Queensland is also now broken.
"You know should never hold me to anything I say," Matthews laughed, when reminded he'd virtually ruled the Lions out of trade week a little more than a month ago.

I think we were able to get Johnstone because:

a) his Fitzroy heritage; and

b) most clubs have an obsession with rebuilding that there wasn't really much competition for his services. Sydney was the only other team mentioned as being interested, but they have salary cap problems, so that ruled them out too.

Grimreepah

17 Oct 2007, 20:16

Link (http://www.afl.com.au/Default.aspx?tabid=208&newsId=52572)

Demons agonised over Johnstone trade: Bailey
3:17 PM Wed 17 October, 2007
By Matt Burgan
for melbournefc.com.au

NEW Melbourne coach Dean Bailey concedes the decision to part with long-serving Demon Travis Johnstone during last week's exchange period was not taken lightly.
Bailey, speaking exclusively to melbournefc.com.au, said the reason behind Johnstone's departure was simply to bolster Melbourne's first round draft selections in the November NAB AFL Draft.
"I spoke to a number of people – players and staff – and we went to enormous lengths in discussing Travis Johnstone. This was not an easy decision to make because he is a very good player," Bailey told melbournefc.com.au.
"At the end of the day, our priority was getting another first round pick and Travis was the person Brisbane saw as someone who they could get, if they gave up a first round pick.
"First round picks are very hard to get, so in that sense you've got to give up a good player to attract a first round pick.
"For the development of the Melbourne footy club, unfortunately Travis had to be that player. We've now got a first round pick and we've got to ensure that our first three picks in the draft are going to be players who represent the Melbourne footy club well.

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/2844/johnstonesy4.jpg

Link (http://melbournefc.com.au/Season2007/News/NewsArticle/tabid/7415/Default.aspx?newsId=52445)

Trade week recap
3:38 PM Fri 12 October, 2007
for melbournefc.com.au

MELBOURNEfc was pleased to receive another first round selection for outgoing midfielder Travis Johnstone.
“It is always a tough decision to trade away a player like Travis, but in this instance we had to give up a quality player to receive a quality Draft Selection. We want to build our list concentrating on players 23 and under and with a new coach this gave us an opportunity to rejuvenate our list,” explained (Craig) Cameron.
“I think the move will be positive for Travis, he now moves interstate with a new club, new environment and new club structure. We would like to thank Travis for his services to the Melbourne Football Club over the past decade, and we wish him all the very best with his new opportunity at the Brisbane Lions.”

http://img70.imageshack.us/img70/4069/johnstoneup7.jpg

Link (http://melbournefc.com.au/Season2007/News/NewsArticle/tabid/7415/Default.aspx?newsId=52416)

Farewell to Travis
9:39 AM Fri 12 October, 2007 | Back
for melbournefc.com.au

While he is departing the Melbourne Football Club, heading north for Brisbane, Travis Johnstone will always be dear to the hearts of Melbourne, and has been part of enough memorable moments to last a lifetime of spectating at the MCG.
Aged just 17 when he was taken as Melbourne’s No. 1 draft pick at the 1997 National Draft, Johnstone came equipped with class and All Australian honours at junior levels. Hailed for being ‘clean at ground level….very good overhead…’, Johnstone’s natural talent was a delight and evident from the first time he played, against the Swans in New Zealand during the 1998 pre-season.
Ever elusive and agile, Johnstone overcame injury and steep learning curves to finish third in the Best and Fairest in 2002, and equal fourth in the Brownlow in the same season. But it was in 2005 that his potential really came to fruition with his Best and Fairest win, a runaway victory as he finished 54 votes ahead of his nearest rival and led the Club in overall disposals.
Now, having worn the No. 16 for 160 games and 111 goals, Johnstone is joining the Lions, but will always remain a treasured part of Melbourne. Having played for ten years, he qualifies for Life Membership, and will also be recognised and honoured by the Club during its 150th birthday in 2008.
We farewell him with our heartfelt best wishes.

http://img115.imageshack.us/img115/953/johnstonexy7.jpg

konstas_87

17 Oct 2007, 23:57

pardon my ignorance, but does he have a broken wrist? (forearm brace in photos).

OldLion

18 Oct 2007, 00:06

I reckon the sight of 3 premiership cups and the presence of Power, Black and Lappin would energise anyone still fair dinkum about achieving something with their footy career. Wait til he meets JB !

notting18

18 Oct 2007, 00:08

pardon my ignorance, but does he have a broken wrist? (forearm brace in photos).
Supposedly he chipped the bone in his arm during the year (meaning he played with the injury) and he should be 100% for the start of Pre-Season....it was in one of the articles i can't remember which one.

Grimreepah

18 Oct 2007, 01:59

The injury report is in post #50.

Link (http://www.thedaily.com.au/news/2007/oct/18/maroochydore-product-sticks-lions/)

Drummond believes Melbourne discard Travis Johnstone will prove to be an astute buy for the Lions, bolstering an already star-studded midfield featuring Nigel Lappin, Luke Power and Simon Black. “I think it’s really exciting and a big pick-up for us,” he said.
“He’s really creative when he has the ball in his hands and if Browny (Jonathan Brown) and Dan Bradshaw can stay fit they’ll be licking their chops,” he said.

http://img61.imageshack.us/img61/5116/johnstoneto7.jpg

POBT

18 Oct 2007, 10:53

Not sure if this has been said before. There is a lot of talk about how Johnstone will thrive in no longer being the #1 midfielder and therefore the primary target for opposition stoppers. While I don't think that he will be numero uno for the Lions, I still think that opposition sides will want to lock down on him.

IMO, the guy who should be thanking the club for engineering the trade is Luke Power. If I was an opposition coach against the Lions this year, I would have put the number 1 tagger onto Black and the number 2 tagger onto Lukey. Luke had a decent season this year but I thought he was not as damaging as he can be and I think he quite often copped a hard tag as our 2nd mid. While Luke is arguably a better player than Trapper, I think that coaches will be reluctant to leave Trappper untended. If anything, he is more damaging with his disposal and, like Aker was in the premiership years, might be a focus of the opposition due to the "hurt factor". As we know, you can't tag everyone and it may be that Luke will slide one place down the pecking order with Trapper's arrival.

Next season, perhaps we need to be mindful that Trapper's contribution may not always be 25 kicks and 10 inside 50s. It might be that the threat that he poses allows the other midfielders to run around with less attention.

Thommo 42

20 Oct 2007, 16:26

Luke Power is such a good bloke, if you're trying to recruit anyone, he's the man who should be meeting them at the airport.

You'd almost let him date your first born daughter.

xplo

22 Oct 2007, 15:36

TheBrownDog

31 Oct 2007, 23:09

If I overheard correctly at training today, Travis will be wearing #4 next year.

Dr Pea P.I

1 Nov 2007, 02:34

If I overheard correctly at training today, Travis will be wearing #4 next year.

shhhhhhh...not too loud....somebody may overhear....

carrben12

1 Nov 2007, 14:12

Dylan12

1 Nov 2007, 14:34

You lucky lions. Very sad to see TJ go. You'll die when you take a close look at how good his skills are. The complaint was always that he was soft, but I could see him improving on that front in a new setting and really impressing for you guys.

Good luck to him. I'll be very surprised if pick 14 is better, even in the long run.

Feel for you mate - if there is one club that knows what it feels like to lose a wanted player is us - so completely understand where you are coming from - don't you worry, most of us Lion BF psoters are well aware of the sublime skills TJ has, all we ask is consistency - you never know pick 14 may be a 200 gamer - even now i am glad Aka is gone (believe me, a year ago i thought it would leave a massive hole), but now - would have trouble fitting him in to our best 22 with those dodgy hammies and with a bit of luck the pick we got for him Chris Schmidt hopefully turns into something - Anyway TJ already looks like being a favourite amongst us - especially those with old Fitzroy links - we lose Johnno - gain TJ:thumbsu:

TheBrownDog

6 Nov 2007, 15:03

The Lions’ Trade Week coup Travis Johnstone from the Melbourne Demons, is set to take the number four made famous by Johnny Gastev and Craig McRae before Tom Logan’s and Ben Fixter’s tenure.

Original Article at Lions.com.au (http://www.lions.com.au/Default.aspx?tabid=5085&newsId=53032)

TheBrownDog

21 Nov 2007, 00:12

http://www.gspimages.com.au/images/thumbs/main/5982.jpg

One for the ladies.... (and Grim).

Grimreepah

21 Nov 2007, 01:10

Browndog, is that a recent photo or are you just posting shirtless pictures of footballers on the internet for the hell of it?

TheBrownDog

21 Nov 2007, 01:38

Browndog, is that a recent photo...

Wondering where to find more Grim?

Grimreepah

21 Nov 2007, 02:11

http://img123.imageshack.us/img123/4408/johnstone6kt3.jpg

CoZi36

8 Dec 2007, 00:26

Johnstone call just business
08 December 2007 Herald Sun
Mike Sheahan

IF DEAN Bailey decided to make an example of Travis Johnstone, as some of us suspect, he's not saying.

http://heraldsun.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,1658,5790017,00.jpg Now a Lion: Travis Johnstone.
The coach says the decision to trade with the Brisbane Lions in the lead-up to the 2007 national draft simply was a prudent business deal.

Nothing more, nothing less. An exchange of an erratic if gifted 27-year-old midfielder for a first-round draft choice (No. 14).

Bailey, though, paused when asked if he had decided to announce a change of culture at Melbourne by releasing a player seen to be part of the furniture and popular with supporters.

New coaches have a history of making a statement on arrival. At Melbourne, the senior group has been subjected to fierce scrutiny, and Bailey seems to have decided something (someone) had to give.

Johnstone is a big scalp. He was the No. 1 draft choice of 1997 and the 2005 best-and-fairest winner, and finished his career with the Demons with 42 disposals in the Round 22 win over Carlton.

"The club decided we needed (another) first-round pick and Travis was the one I suppose we thought we could get a really good pick for," Bailey said.

"It was a consensus decision. I spoke to a number of people, all the stakeholders, and we went to enormous lengths in discussing Travis Johnstone.

"The consensus was that decision would be good for the future of our club.

"Obviously, if my opinion was against it, we wouldn't have done it.

"Fourteen for Travis was right on the edge of what we would have liked. He's a good player, we would have liked something earlier than that."

The problem was no club with a higher pick than Brisbane wanted to do business.

Bailey said the driving force was the desire for another early pick, with an element of change to the culture.

"Travis and I had some conversations and I basically said, 'This is how we're thinking: I think you've got some ability, but, for the betterment of the club, I think we need a first-round pick.

" 'If it's a good pick, we'll consider it seriously, but if it's not, you'll still be here. We discussed it as a group; 14 was about on the cusp."

Bailey and those around him know it is a decision that could come back to haunt them.

Yet what is beyond dispute is the fact Johnstone never managed to perform consistently at the heights he reached at various times in his 10 seasons at Melbourne.

It was as if he wanted to play AFL football on his terms. Just two top-three finishes in the best-and-fairest coupled with a cavalier attitude always made his future a popular topic of discussion.

All the Melbourne players are on notice that anything less than 100 per cent is less than enough for the new coach.

Source: http://heraldsun.news.com.au/footy/common/story_page/0,8033,22888056%255E20322,00.html

Grimreepah

8 Dec 2007, 02:10

The thing that I find strange about this trade is that in theory it should be happening the other way around. At the start of the year Melbourne president Paul Gardiner said 2007 and 2008 was their premiership window. Conversely the Brisbane Lions, who are going through a very distinct premiership cycle, are supposedly still recovering from their premiership success and not meant to be flag contenders just yet. So by that logic Brisbane should be trading for draft picks and Melbourne should be trading for experienced players.

Perceptions (or indeed self perceptions) of where both these teams are on the premiership cycle have changed quite a bit in the last 12 months, but my guess is that this trade occurred simply because the two clubs rate him differently, ie. he is rated higher by Brisbane than by Melbourne.

Grimreepah

8 Dec 2007, 02:35

By the way, I don't know if this has been mentioned before but pick 14 ended up being Jack Grimes, so it will be interesting to compare their remaining careers.

And for an idea of the quality of players going at pick 14:

2006 - James Sellar (Adelaide)
2005 - Grant Birchall (Hawthorn)
2004 - Angus Monfries (Essendon)
2003 - Fergus Watts (Adelaide)
2002 - Daniel Bell (Melbourne)
2001 - Ashley Watson (Kangaroos)
2000 - Daniel Harris (Kangaroos)
1999 - Travis Gasper (West Coast)
1998 - Luke Penny (Western Bulldogs)
1997 - Shannon Watt (North Melbourne)

Kochie 16

8 Dec 2007, 08:53

Thommo 42

8 Dec 2007, 09:29

Grimes is rated pretty highly, and most Pie fans expected us to take him with 14 if we hadn't traded.

Grimreepah, I agree totally with your assessment. The Demons are stuck rebuilding again, while the Lions are now a genuine Top 4 threat in 2008 (which by definition makes them a premiership threat)

xplo

11 Dec 2007, 09:44

Fairley

12 Dec 2007, 00:58

Is anyone else starting to get a little bit worried about TJ's lack of preseason participation... :(

TheBrownDog

12 Dec 2007, 01:45

Is anyone else starting to get a little bit worried about TJ's lack of preseason participation... :(

No, he trained with the main group on Monday.

Fairley

12 Dec 2007, 12:31

No, he trained with the main group on Monday.

thats good news :o

Grimreepah

13 Dec 2007, 16:16

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/9374/johnstonehq6.jpg

Johnstone training at Cooparoo 12/12/2007

Fairley

13 Dec 2007, 16:19

Thanks Grim :), what site did you get that off?

Grimreepah

13 Dec 2007, 16:33

Thanks Grim :), what site did you get that off?

GSP Images (http://www.gspimages.com.au/photography/results/?q=brisbane+lions&sub_code=all&submit=Search)

Grimreepah

21 Dec 2007, 10:23

For anyone interested Travis was awarded life membership (http://www.afl.com.au/Season2007/News/NewsArticle/tabid/208/Default.aspx?newsId=54340) at the Melbourne Football Club on Tuesday.

dlanod

21 Dec 2007, 12:56

For anyone interested Travis was awarded life membership (http://www.afl.com.au/Season2007/News/NewsArticle/tabid/208/Default.aspx?newsId=54340) at the Melbourne Football Club on Tuesday.

Out of mild curiousity, have any of our players ever had life membership for a competitor club while still playing for us? I guess back in the Fitzroy/Bears days it would've been more likely, but it seems like we very much develop our own and picking up an established player from another club is very very rare.

TheBrownDog

21 Dec 2007, 13:12

Out of mild curiousity, have any of our players ever had life membership for a competitor club while still playing for us? I guess back in the Fitzroy/Bears days it would've been more likely, but it seems like we very much develop our own and picking up an established player from another club is very very rare.

Yeah, Pikey and TJ are the most two experienced players we've recruited in recent history.

And I don't think Pikey was well behaved enough to crack life membership at his old clubs. ;)

Both Johnstone and Pikey won a club B&F at previous clubs though... Pikey at Fitzroy and TJ at Melbourne.

CoZi36

22 Dec 2007, 23:18

Karen Lyon | December 23, 2007

MELBOURNE will continue to pay former midfielder and 1997 No. 1 draft pick Travis Johnstone $200,000 next year, despite the 27-year-old being traded to the Brisbane Lions in October.

The payment is revealed in the club's financial report and is the source of some dispute between the club and its auditors, Ernst and Young.

The Demons had announced a profit of $96,689 for 2007, but the auditors believe the payment to the player, who is never named in the report, should be taken into account this year causing the club to in fact make a loss.

In the report, the auditors representative writes: "The football department costs disclosed in the income statement should reflect an additional $200,000 expense. Accordingly, the trade and other payables balance should be increased by this amount. The impact on this adjustment would be to reduce the result of the year ended 31 October 2007 by $200,000 and increase trade and other payables, and the net asset deficiency by this amount."

The Demons have now recorded profits for the past four years, but this year's smaller profit was put down to its poor season and the long line of injuries which impacted player payments and affected gate takings.
It's not uncommon for clubs to pay their former players at rival clubs and Melbourne's actions are in line with AFL rules, which call for a former club to make up the shortfall in a player's contract if his new club does not meet the terms of his previous club.

In its directors report, the Melbourne board defended its position. "The directors note the auditors comment on our treatment of a termination payment to be made during 2008 in respect of a player traded to another AFL club. Payments to players and rookies listed on the club's primary list are normally brought to account as an expense in the year each contracted payment falls due."

Source: http://www.realfooty.com.au/news/news/dees-still-paying-johnstone/2007/12/22/1198175414015.html

CoZi36

22 Dec 2007, 23:20

When Johnstone got presented with his jumper at the Dees:

http://i17.tinypic.com/85k59ww.jpg

Cousin Jed

22 Dec 2007, 23:41

Obviously Melbourne were desperate to be seen as posting a profit that they wouldn't adjust their financials. Considering the auditors just qualified the accounts anyway, seems a bit stupid, but nothing surprises me with sets of accounts these days.

(bit of offtopic boring accounting speak for you there)

200k, nice little chip in from the demons.

FOOOOTY

23 Dec 2007, 00:33

Yeah, Pikey and TJ are the most two experienced players we've recruited in recent history.

And I don't think Pikey was well behaved enough to crack life membership at his old clubs. ;)

Both Johnstone and Pikey won a club B&F at previous clubs though... Pikey at Fitzroy and TJ at Melbourne.

Pikey was amazing, his off field antics must of been pretty bad, because like you said B&F Fitzroy moved on.. starred at Melbourne, moved on.. premiership player North Melbourne, moved on, then 3 flags with you guys.

I got a feeling Trapper is in for a big big year. Cmon, you guys are rich.. why do we have to pay ? :)

POBT

25 Jan 2008, 11:27

Article (http://www.lions.com.au/tabid/5085/News/NewsArticle/Default.aspx?newsId=54766)

New targets for Johnstone
9:45 AM Fri 25 January, 2008

By Simon White

for lions.com.au

AFTER 10 years spent putting the ball lace-out on the chest of one of the competition’s best forwards, Travis Johnstone can’t wait to start season No.11.
The catch, of course, that the new Lion's first 10 campaigns were spent at Melbourne, with David Neitz leading towards him.

Season 11 will unfold at the Gabba and the player trying to get on the end of his spearing passes will be the best forward in the game – reigning Coleman Medallist Jonathan Brown.

"I played with some great players in Melbourne but especially 'Neita'," Johnstone said.

"It was always exciting to see him come flying out on the lead and try and put the ball on his chest.

"Now it’s Jonathan Brown and everyone knows how good a player he is – he’s the best forward going around at the moment.

"We’re going to get Daniel Bradshaw back, as well, a couple of games into the season and it’s going to be great to have two huge key forwards to kick the ball to.”

Johnstone, who became a Lion in a three-way trade involving the Demons and Collingwood, arrived at the Gabba with a couple of injury niggles – most notably a wrist that was “wired up” after the completion of the 2007 home-and-away season.

With achilles problems also an issue last year, his first preseason as a Lion has been carefully planned - he did not start full-scale training until just before Christmas.

"I’ve been pretty much doing everything for the last month or so and it’s felt pretty good," Johnstone said.

"But every now and then I’ll have a freshen-up just to lighten the load.

"I had Monday night off this week which was enjoyable because I was probably feeling a little tired and I feel a lot fresher having not trained.

"Because I’ve been playing for 10 years pretty solidly, it doesn’t take too much to tap into that [fitness] base that you build up."

The 27-year-old has plenty of big-game experience, having played in 14 finals at Melbourne, including the 2000 Grand Final loss to Essendon.

Johnstone says he can see some similarities between the current Lions squad and that Melbourne side in 2000, which featured a mix of older, more experienced players and youngsters finding their niche at AFL level.

"I think the key is experience," Johnstone said.

"This team has got a lot of younger guys, who, over the last couple of years, have got that little bit of experience – up around the 50 games mark or so.

"It’s an exciting time to be at the club because last season the team got so close to the finals and this year we’re in a good spot to have a real crack at actually getting there.

"I’m just excited to be part of this group."

Grimreepah

8 Feb 2008, 08:53

Link (http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/footy/common/story_page/0,8033,23177725%255E19742,00.html)

No looking back: Johnstone
08 February 2008 Herald Sun
Andrew Hamilton

WHEN Travis Johnstone found out his club was shopping him around and the Brisbane Lions were interested, he didn't have the benefit of hindsight to help him make his decision.
So if Melbourne had never considered trading him, but Brisbane had made an approach, would his decision to go have been the same?
Johnstone lets out a slow whistle and, after a long pause, says: "Yes, I think so."
It is a tough question, because Johnstone loved the Demons and always wanted to be a one-club player.
It's a question he's thought about a lot since arriving in Brisbane at the end of last season via a three-way trade that saw Lions ruckman Cameron Wood go to Collingwood.
"I've even found myself wondering how would things have panned out if I had gone earlier," Johnstone said.
The answer is he would probably have been a premiership player by now, given that of the handful of clubs to chase him over the years, Sydney was the club he came closest to joining.
But you won't catch Johnstone looking back.
Not even when he's sitting on a rocky outcrop at Castle Hill, high above Townsville - as far away from the football hub of Melbourne as you can get.
The change so far has been better than any holiday.
The 27-year-old is now playing under one of the game's most successful coaches, Leigh Matthews. And he predicts it will be the making of him as a footballer.
"I think I will play the best football of my career here at Brisbane," he said.
"I just think there's a lot more in me to come out, and it just feels like this is the right place for me, here at the Lions."
Johnstone has played 160 games and was the Demons' best-and-fairest in 2005.
After 10 years in the AFL system, why does he think he can suddenly take his game to another level?
First, he will no longer be the prime target for opposition taggers.
"I got the heaviest tag every week, even when I wasn't playing well," he said of his time at the Demons.
"That won't happen here. I might get tagged sometimes, but I won't always be the focus.
"As Leigh said, 'we've got a lot of options now'."
Second, he believes the resources and expertise at Brisbane's football department will make a difference, something the cash-strapped Demons didn't enjoy at the Junction Oval.
"They can say that the weights weigh the same and things like that, but facilities do make a difference," he said. "Spending money on a football department does make a difference and Melbourne never had that."
Johnstone doesn't shy from the fact that leaving his former club was hard.
It was not just the physical act of packing up and leaving friends and family to head to a new city, but coping with the shock of discovering the Demons had shopped him around.
"Yeah that was it, it took a while to get over," he said.

http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/2034/johnstone4rg2.jpg

Lace Out

8 Feb 2008, 09:01

He must be feeling pretty fit to put it out there that he can play career best footy with us.:thumbsu:

xplo

8 Feb 2008, 10:46

Fairley

8 Feb 2008, 16:07

I wish he's stop talking about this 'heaviest tag' stuff. Brock McClean got more attention last year, and Bruce and Green get tagged because hard tagging on them works -- the difference between letting those two do what they like, and handcuffing a hard-nosed bugger to them is huge. Aaron Davey struggled last year precisely because opposition sides spent a long time studying him and planning to limit his influence.

I'm not saying TJ was ignored, but I don't think he's going to find things twice as easy as the were, which is the impression you get reading his media.

TJ didn't seem too worried about that today. :thumbsu:

http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd80/Fairley1991/Lions%20Community/LionsCommunity053.jpg

Bobby Beecroft

10 Feb 2008, 06:57

I wish he's stop talking about this 'heaviest tag' stuff. Brock McClean got more attention last year, and Bruce and Green get tagged because hard tagging on them works -- the difference between letting those two do what they like, and handcuffing a hard-nosed bugger to them is huge.

I'm not saying TJ was ignored, but I don't think he's going to find things twice as easy as the were, which is the impression you get reading his media.

McLean & TJ only played 8 games together in 2007.
Bruce & Green clearly averaged more disposals than TJ during 2007, so the tags (if they were) didn't work as well as we may think. Perhaps they just worked a little harder, perhaps they didn't have the heavy tag.

Sidepoint, Melbourne didn't win a game when McLean missed.
I recall debating with someone on our board that he was clearly the most important Demon midfielder. Feel quite vindicated.

Grimreepah

10 Feb 2008, 09:35

I agree it would be better if Travis was thinking more about making things easier for his team mates rather than his team mates making things easier for him.

Link (http://www.goldcoast.com.au/article/2008/02/16/7837_gold-coast-sport.html)

Johnstone ready to unleash at Carrara
Nick Smart
16Feb08

BRISBANE Lions star recruit Travis Johnstone has given the Gold Coast Stadium turf an emphatic thumbs up, hosing down any talk of an unsafe playing surface hurting tonight's NAB Cup clash against Essendon.

Safety concerns due to a lack of grass cover at Carrara dogged this game before the AFL finally gave the ground the green light last week.

"It is hardish but you have to expect that at this time of year with the weather," said Johnstone yesterday.

"Maybe it could be a little bit softer but I think it is in immaculate condition."

After a long and tough pre-season since crossing from Melbourne, Johnstone is looking forward to pulling on a Lions jumper for the first time in a game. But his main wish is to simply get through the contest unscathed.

Johnstone, who played 160 games for the Demons and earned a best and fairest in 2005 before being traded to Brisbane last year, said the move had been positive.

"It's pretty exciting," he said. "Brisbane has been great to me, especially the players."

Both clubs will take young squads into the pre-season match, with Lions stars Jonathan Brown, Simon Black, Daniel Bradshaw, Jamie Charman and Daniel Merrett among those watching from the sidelines through either injury, or simply being rested. For the Bombers, skipper Matthew Lloyd, Scott Lucas, Dustin Fletcher are among their top 22 missing.

But Johnstone dismissed any talk the players on the field would not be treating the match seriously.

"It is a pretty serious competition," he said.

"Once you cross the white line, it's hell for leather and you're out there to win ... we'll be giving it a fair nudge."

Last year the Lions had a strong pre-season and ended up making the NAB Cup final, where they lost to Carlton.

However, they had to travel four weeks in a row, and Johnstone said that schedule may have done the Lions more harm than good.

"They did so well in the NAB Cup, but it may have hurt them during the year," he said. "Even though it is important to be out there playing now, I don't think winning the NAB Cup is vital ... You have to have the focus that the season is the main thing."

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2836/johnstonetf6.jpg

Lace Out

13 Feb 2008, 07:52

Leigh interviewed on 3AW yesterday said he had never thought Travis to be a particularly aerobic athlete but has been surprised with his running ability/stamina.

TheBrownDog

16 Feb 2008, 03:20

Good luck Trav. Hope you know the words to the song.

Johnstone excited by Lions debut

4:36 PM Fri 15 February, 2008
AAP
Link to Original Article (http://www.lions.com.au/Default.aspx?tabid=5085&newsId=55321)

BRISBANE Lions recruit Travis Johnstone has just one wish when he pulls on the Lions guernsey for the first time in Saturday night’s NAB Cup match against Essendon – not to get injured.

The former Melbourne star said the Lions would be playing for a win against the Bombers at the Gold Coast Stadium, but his own expectations were much more selfish.

"Probably just not to get injured," Johnstone said, when asked about taking the field as a Lion for the first time.

Johnstone, who played 160 games for the Demons and earned a best and fairest in 2005 before being traded to the Lions last year, said the move had been positive.

"Brisbane has been great to me, especially the players as well."

His arrival at the club will add strength to the Lions’ midfield which already includes the likes of veteran Nigel Lappin, Simon Black and Luke Power.

The 27-year-old said the Lions were eyeing a winning start to the pre-season in a match where both clubs have named inexperienced squads.

"It doesn’t matter what team you put out on the park, especially the first round NAB Cup, I think everyone is so excited, young players too," he said.

"Once you cross the white line it’s hell for leather and you’re out there to win, so hopefully we’ll be out there, we’ll be giving it a fair nudge."

Assistant coach Justin Leppitsch will take over the reins at Brisbane for the match, while Matthew Knights will coach the Bombers for the first time.