Michael Johnson has made a touching tribute to Fremantle members and fans after an emotional send-off at Optus Stadium on Saturday.
Fremantle fell by nine points to Collingwood in Johnson’s 244th and final AFL game, but the majority of the 41,320 fans stuck around to bid farewell to the Freo legend.
“They’re easily the best supporters in Australia,” Johnson said.
“It was a tough one because I’ve spent a lot of years here, 15 years representing Fremantle.
“The club’s a second family and the supporters are very loyal and they’ve supported me through the highs and the tough times.
“I just can’t thank them enough for everything over the years.”
Johnson completed a lap of honour with his three children Ameliah, Levi and Nevaya and was carried off the ground on the shoulders of Nat Fyfe and Hayden Ballantyne.
Johnson said he hopes the moment will be just as special to his children as it was to him.
“They really enjoyed the lap of honour and it was good as we had family in all corners of Optus Stadium,” Johnson said.
“They also saw the video that featured (on the big screen) of my long curly hair from way back in 2005. They had a bit of a smile about that and that’s why I play AFL footy.
“I’m representing my family and my children. I’m a role model to them, and hopefully, they will remember this moment for the rest of their lives.”
Johnson said he was proud of his teammates for pushing Collingwood – a team chasing a top-two finish – to the limit.
“They could have gone into their shell after the effort against Geelong last week,” Johnson said.
“The boys stuck at it. I’m a bit sad at the moment but the boys’ effort was great.
“Hopefully, they can learn from this game today and come back bigger and better.”
