In a surprising development for the WAFL 2026 season, former Collingwood forward Ash Johnson has walked out on West Coast's pre-season training to return to his home state of South Australia. This unexpected move has left the football community speculating about the reasons behind his departure and its implications for the upcoming season.
Johnson's Sudden Exit from West Coast
Ash Johnson, who previously played for Collingwood in the AFL, had been participating in West Coast's pre-season preparations as part of the WAFL setup. However, he has now left the program abruptly, choosing to head back to South Australia instead. This decision comes at a critical time for teams gearing up for the 2026 WAFL campaign, potentially disrupting West Coast's plans and roster strategy.
Impact on WAFL 2026 Season
The loss of Johnson could have significant repercussions for West Coast's performance in the WAFL. As a forward with AFL experience, he was likely seen as a key asset for the team's attacking lineup. His departure may force the club to reassess their player recruitment and training focus as they aim to compete effectively in the league.
Fans and analysts are now questioning whether Johnson's exit is due to personal reasons, homesickness, or perhaps a disagreement with the coaching staff. Without official statements, the exact cause remains unclear, but it highlights the challenges clubs face in managing player commitments and morale during the intense pre-season period.
Broader Implications for Player Movements
This incident underscores the fluid nature of player movements in Australian football, especially in state leagues like the WAFL. It serves as a reminder that even experienced players can make sudden decisions that affect team dynamics and season preparations. For West Coast, this could be a setback, but it also opens opportunities for other players to step up and fill the void left by Johnson.
As the 2026 WAFL season approaches, all eyes will be on how West Coast adapts to this change and whether Johnson's return to South Australia leads to further developments in his football career.
