Former AFL Star Steve Johnson Recovers from Life-Threatening Knife Accident

Former AFL star Steve Johnson is currently recovering in hospital after miraculously surviving a life-threatening injury sustained in a freak knife accident. Johnson, a former player for Geelong and Greater Western Sydney, suffered a deep wound to his stomach while opening a gate on his property in Wangaratta. The incident occurred when a knife he was carrying accidentally pierced its cover and bag, stabbing him in the stomach.

The 40-year-old Johnson, who retired in 2017 and moved to country football in 2022, is currently the senior coach for the Yarrawonga Pigeons in the Ovens and Murray Football League. Last year, he led the team to a premiership victory. Upon hearing the news of Johnson’s accident, the club issued a statement expressing their wishes for his quick and complete recovery. They noted that although the injury was severe, time would heal and they hoped Johnson would be back on his feet soon.

A neighbor who is a nurse promptly came to Johnson’s aid before he was rushed to Wangaratta hospital for emergency surgery. Despite initial concerns that the injury could be fatal, Johnson successfully underwent surgery and is now expected to make a full recovery. On his Instagram page, Johnson shared a photo of his surgically repaired stomach and expressed gratitude for the messages of support received.

Johnson’s football career spanned nearly 300 games, during which he played for Geelong and Greater Western Sydney. He was an integral member of Geelong’s triple premiership-winning teams between 2007 and 2011, earning him a reputation as a superstar forward. Johnson also kicked 516 goals throughout his career and was awarded the Norm Smith Medal after the 2007 Grand Final. He earned All-Australian honors three times during his playing days. Following his retirement, Johnson transitioned into coaching and has worked as an assistant for both the Giants and the Sydney Swans.