Johnno: Bulldog Through and Through

by Brad Johnson

Brad Johnson grew up in Melbourne's western suburbs, never dreaming he'd one day become captain of the Western Bulldogs and the club's games record holder. He's the Doggies' pin-up boy – a true working-class man - known as the 'smiling assassin'.

But beware of the dog. Behind that broad smile lies a steely determination to succeed. Johnno's durability and consistency over a sixteen-year career have made him a widely respected player and a great leader, on and off the field. He has witnessed the club's transformation from a culture of losing to one of winning, within reach of its second premiership.

Johnno has great stories to tell about his teammates - the early days were shared with Dougie Hawkins and Libba - and he played with many 300-plus game legends (Chris Grant, Scott West and Rohan Smith). He was part of the club when Ted Whitten lost his battle with cancer. Brad has a candid view on coaching, having played under three different coaches (Terry Wallace, Peter Rhode, Rodney 'Rocket' Eade). He's seen his beloved club almost go under, and he's captained it through its resurrection.

This is the story of the Western Bulldogs' last two decades, as seen through the eyes of its favourite son.

304 pages, Paperback

First published September 22, 2010

Reviews

[Samantha Fleming · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked how the book covered all other football clubs in the AFL instead of just the Bulldogs. But the only real criticism I have is just I thought there could have been some information on like what players did before and after the game in the change rooms, what was eaten during half time, some information maybe about the runners and also who Johnno roomed with during interstate matches. But over a good Bio.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Re-living the 1997 and 2009 preliminary final losses hurts like hell.