From Alice Springs to Qatar: Territorian Cameron Cook selected for Olyroos squad

The Northern Territory will be represented in the under 23 Asian Cup this month, with Alice Springs man Cameron Cook set to pull on the gloves. Read his story.

Territorian Cameron Cook of Perth Glory in action against the Central Coast Mariners. Picture: Perth Glory

Territorian goalkeeper Cameron Cook is buzzing after he was selected for the Australian under-23’s Olyroos’ squad, which is set to enter a high-stakes tournament in the coming weeks.

The Alice Springs-born prodigy was picked by head coach Tony Vidmar as one of three goalkeepers to protect the net at this month’s Asian Cup in Qatar, which doubles as a qualifier for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Cook, now at A League Men’s Perth Glory, told the NT News he was overwhelmed by the call up.

“It’s a massive honour and a privilege to play for your country in any sport, and to have the chance to play at a tournament like the Asian Cup is a dream come true,” he said.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to be selected for a few trips now and hope to be able to continue to grow as a player and continue to represent my country.”

Cook has become a valuable member of the Perth Glory squad. Picture: Perth Glory.

Cook, 23, will compete alongside some of nation’s brightest footballing talents, including Garang Kuol of Newcastle United and Marco Tilio of Celtic – a long way from his humble beginnings with the Red Centre’s Viking FC.

“Growing up in Alice Springs, there was always an element of doubt in my mind, but I was very focused on making the most of every opportunity that I was given,” he said.

“I had the honour of representing the Northern Territory interstate and overseas and had fantastic interstate and overseas opportunities with Adrian Haynes and Coerver Coaching Australia – I trained in Sydney with 1974 Socceroo Jim Fraser for many years and am forever grateful for Jim’s support.”

Cameron Cook of the Glory takes a selfie with the fans after a win against Brisbane Roar on February 17, 2024, in Perth, Australia. Picture: James Worsfold

Cook said his family had been his “most important” support system, and that his journey so far was evidence Territorians could compete professionally in the World Game.

“I think that no matter where you are from or what circumstances someone is challenged with, there’s always a way to firstly enjoy what you’re doing, and secondly, work hard and put the hours in to reach your goals,” he said.

“Some may see being born in the NT as a disadvantage, but I encourage athletes to take advantage of every opportunity you can, work hard and push yourself to the limit.

“There’s no telling where you’ll end up, regardless your beginnings (and) I hope that my journey to date encourages any athletes to achieve their dreams.”

The Olyroos will face pool group opponents Jordan on April 15, followed by Indonesia and host nation Qatar on April 18 and 21 respectively.