Since being drafted to the Sydney Swans, he has been comfortable in his new environment and relishing the challenge.

Johnston is living with teammates Kieren Jack and Daniel Currie.

He said they were both good lads who are helping him in all areas of his transition.

“It has been amazing. The playing group has welcomed me to the club and is keen to help me develop as a player on and off the field,” he said.

When asked if the intensity of training was what he expected, Johnston said: “I sort of knew what I was up for as I had spent a couple of weeks at Port Power last year which was similar to Sydney.” He said that the training regime is varied and the sessions change each week.

As well as running, kicking and skills performed on the oval, the players do boxing, bike riding, swimming and rowing.

Gym work is also a huge part of the training and Johnston said he does three weights sessions a week then he has pelvic stability once a week and core stability twice a week.

He is doing a body strength and muscle building program and is concentrating on building the muscles that he needs in the game.

Coach Paul Roos has given Johnston guidance about how he needs to train but the forwards’ coach, weights coach and the stability coach give him more specific instructions.

Like most AFL clubs, the Swans goal is a premiership, but Johnston’s personal goals are kept close to his chest.

“I have a number of goals set for this season, but they are between me and the club’s counsellor and it is the same for everyone,” he said.

The club’s champion forward Barry Hall is Johnston’s mentor.

It has been suggested he will one day fill those shoes but for now, the former Port Pirie boy is aiming for his first AFL match.

He was first emergency for the NAB Cup against Power, played in a trial against the New South Wales State team and took part in the Swans reserves first official match of the season last weekend.