Mason Cox, the American rules footballer, found fame down under in the Australian Football League (AFL). After a truly great career of 139 games, he has since been delisted by Collingwood. This decision draws a close to an era for both Cox and the Magpies. He departs the club after a fabulous tenure that saw them win a nailbiting premiership in 2023.
Cox, who established himself as a regular player for Collingwood in 2018, was a big part of the club’s return to prominence. His Anzac Day debut in 2016. In one sensational stroke, he sent a stadium full – 85,082 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) – into raptures. Over the years, he became known for his towering abilities on the field and his unique journey as the first American to become a regular in the AFL.
A Celebrated Career
Throughout his tenure with the Magpies, Cox developed into a gifted and determined player. He managed only 20 games in his first two seasons on the Magpies’ senior list. With each match, he gradually settled in and established himself as an instrumental player. His dazzling display in the 2018 preliminary final was a high mark. He produced a best on ground performance that helped Collingwood book their spot in the premiership decider.
2023 was arguably the high-water mark of Cox’s AFL career. He had an extraordinary impact on the game, in particular leading his team, Collingwood, over the line in a heart-stopping grand final against the Brisbane Lions. This victory concluded his legacy—at least as a player—at the club where he finishes with a compare of 127 goals.
“It’s crazy to think that you’d never heard of a sport … to then be a premiership player.” – Mason Cox
Cox’s journey was not without its challenges. He wore goggles during his final seasons due to a serious eye injury, demonstrating his determination to continue competing at a high level.
Australian Citizenship and Legacy
Beyond his achievements on the pitch, Cox fully immersed himself in Australian society, and became an Australian citizen in early 2022. They marked this incredible achievement with a ceremony at the MCG. This transformational experience only deepened his love for the sport and the country.
Despite the black mark still hanging over him, as he departs Collingwood there are serious questions about Moore’s future in the sport. Cox has not announced whether he will retire or play for another team next season. There’s no denying that his impact on Australian football is already being felt.
“Collingwood supporters are the best supporters in the world.” – Mason Cox
At only 34 years old, he has left behind a deeply inspiring legacy. It meets the most particularly those who have been treated as other in the world of cycling.
Looking Ahead
Though his time on the team was short, his contributions have left a profound impact on the club and its fans. The club and its supporters will forever cherish him as a club legend or cult hero. He beat those odds and went down in history as one of the most distinctive players in the league’s history.
