Alumni Update: Ross Johnston
Fresh off of signing a brand new four-year, $4 million contract with the New York Islanders, Charlottetown Islanders alumni Ross Johnston is working hard this offseason to cement his role on a team in a transitionary period of sorts, having lost superstar centre and long-time face of the franchise John Tavares to free agency.
To prepare for his first full season in the NHL, Johnston turned to familiar faces and former teammates in Charlottetown.
“I work out at Dynamic Fitness, and then skate out in Pownal.” Said the 6’5 forward. “We have a great group there, including Ryan Graves, Ryan MacKinnon, Kameron Kielly, [Rimouski Oceanic forward] Carson MacKinnon, and a few others.”
“That’s the routine though. Go [to Dynamic Fitness] Monday to Friday, and then skate as well.”
Johnston has been using his time back on Prince Edward Island to sharpen his skills and increase his strength, especially in a few particular areas.
“I think your lower body is always something you have to work on, now a days.” Said Johnston. “You have to be able to skate, you have to be able to move. My goal is to always be building strength in my legs and continue to work on my skating, first and foremost. It’s something I’ve always had to work on.”
Despite the hard work and strict regiment, Johnston has found time to enjoy his summer home. It’s certainly not something he takes for granted.
“It’s great, it’s hard to believe we’re already at the [middle of August]. The weather has been pretty great for us.” Johnston said. “Any time you can spend the summer home in PEI it’s pretty special, so I’m enjoying it and starting to look forward to camp.”
With New York Islanders training camp just around the corner, Johnston was frank when asked about whether or not he’s set any individual goals for himself.
“No, not really. Obviously, team success is what you go for.” Johnston explained. “I just wanna go in, make an impression, and play whatever role they want me to play.”
“That’s what I’m there for, to contribute and be a role player on the ice and in the dressing room.”
