Spanning across four states and one territory, Brennan Cox and his family can only get together for special occasions.
And Saturday’s clash with Brisbane at the Gabba will be just that for Freo’s newest debutant.
A South Australian native, Cox’s parents and two sisters live in Adelaide, with a brother each in Brisbane, Melbourne and Darwin.
While Cox was with most of his family on draft night, he has not seen his parents and siblings together since Christmas 2015.
Cox said his Brisbane-based brother was quick to commit to being at the Gabba, but the 18-year-old is hopeful of seeing the whole family at the game.
“They’re all so excited and said they can’t wait to get over and watch me play,” Cox said.
“I haven’t seen my brothers in a while actually.
“My brother, who’s from Brisbane, messaged me and said he’ll see me there.
“I see my sisters every time I go back to Adelaide, but I haven’t seen my brothers in ages.”
Cox is a product of Woodville West Torrens, the same home club as teammate Cam Sutcilffe and Freo legend Matthew Pavlich.
He was drafted with pick no.41 at the 2016 National Draft as a versatile forward/defender and has gone on to play that role over eight WAFL games for Peel.
His best performance of the season came against Perth in round nine, where he raked in 17 marks in playing in the Thunder’s backline.
Whether he plays up front or in defence, Cox says his preparations will be similar.
“I approach the game the same no matter where I play,” Cox said.
“If I’m in the forward line I’ll have a few set shots for goal in the warm up but it’s pretty much the same, even in the AFL it will be just another game.”
Defender Joel Hamling congratulates Cox on his selection
Sam Collins, who also comes into the side to play his first AFL game of 2017, joins Cox on the flight to Brisbane.
Through Collins, Cox has found the importance of learning from his teammates.
“Sam’s been great with me all year.,” Cox said.
“He’s really helped me down in defence in the WAFL and it will be great to debut alongside Sam, who’s played a handful of AFL games already.
“On the field, if I’m in the wrong position or if I’m a bit unsure, he’ll always be there telling me to get on a certain side or to push up into the contest.
“He’s really vocal and a good leader.
“That’s how I’ll approach the game. If I’m willing to learn off everyone it’ll be a great experience.”
