GWS success won’t come overnight: Johnson

Star Greater Western Sydney recruit Steve Johnson knows what it takes to build a winning culture and insists his new club is only at the start of the journey towards an AFL flag.

The triple premiership player with Geelong joined the Giants late last year following his release by the Cats after 253 games.

Of his 14 seasons spent at the Cattery, Johnson featured in 10 finals series, including four grand finals.

By contrast, the Giants are yet to make the eight in their four-year history.

They came the closest last year, finishing in 11th place with 11 wins – two wins outside the eight. It was an improvement on six wins in 2014.

“Obviously they’re only early into their journey,” Johnson told reporters on Thursday.

“It’s going to take time. It doesn’t come overnight.

“It takes a number of years to be at that stage where you can win premierships.”

Johnson, 32, has spent the off-season adapting to his new surroundings but also working with coaching staff to help “sell the message” to the young playing group.

He believes the talented Giants list is now experienced enough to make the September action.

“They’ve played enough footy now that they’re not worried about adding games to their careers,” he said.

“They actually want to go out and win and be successful.

“Hopefully I can play a small role in this club having some success in the future.”

The star forward is not the only one excited about the club’s direction, with head coach Leon Cameron re-signing for a further two seasons to keep him there at least until the end of 2018.

Johnson will use the pre-season NAB Challenge beginning this month to boost his match fitness and gain valuable experience playing with his new teammates.

He said he his young family had adjusted well to the move up north and was made to feel welcome by the club.

“We’ve really enjoyed living in Sydney, going to a new beach every second day.”

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