Draft prospect Nik Cox using his time in lockdown to improve his game
Northern Knights co-captain Nik Cox has been touted as one of the leading AFL draft prospect this season and is trying to make the most of his time in lockdown to improve his game.
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Top 10 draft prospect Nik Cox is making the most of his time in lockdown, working with an athletics coach to improve his game in preparation for a career at the elite level.
The Northern Knights’ key position talent believes COVID-19 shutdown has been a blessing in disguise.
The pandemic has forced all community football to be cancelled and left the shortened NAB League season hanging by a thread.
However, the Montmorency product said the lockdown had allowed him to address his weaknesses.
“It’s actually been a bit of a blessing in disguise, I’ve been able to work on the things I’ve needed to,” Cox said.
“I’ve been doing a lot in the gym and my uncle in an athletics coach, so he works me pretty hard.
“I had to really focus on my take-off speed, which is something I’m been working on for a long time.”
Cox, a 199cm, 82kg swingman, has been touted as a potential No.1 pick with his elite skills and athletic ability for his size.
His leadership skills have also impressed, named Knights co-captain earlier this year and in line to lead Vic Metro if an under-18 showcase gets off the ground.
Mental strength has been a big element of coping without football.
“It’s obviously really disappointing to miss out on the season but you need to make the best out of the situation,” Cox said.
“It tests you, it really does. You’re so used to playing footy, you take it for granted, and to be stripped of it is challenging.
“You can either do the right thing and work hard or go ‘it doesn’t really matter’.”
AFL Victoria gave all NAB League players a training program when the season was postponed in March and the Knights have continued to support their players.
Cox played one game for Vic Metro as a 17-year-old and featured in the grand final curtain-raiser Future All-Stars clash last year.
After playing on a wing or forward in 2019, Knights coach Justin Wenke had been set to feature his rising star at centre half-back in 2020 and showcase Cox’s intercept marking ability.
“My versatility is one of my strengths but it’s good to get some continuity in one position and learn everything about that position,” Cox said.
“I think being an intercept defender, you can have a really big impact on a game.
“If you can lockdown on your player and then steal the ball off the opposition, you’re doing a lot (to help the team win).”
The NAB League season had been due to kick off on August 22 but Melbourne’s second lockdown has left those plans in disarray.
The AFL is still discussing plans for the national championships, draft combines and national draft.