In an exclusive revelation, Fremantle Dockers newcomer Mason Cox has decisively ended any speculation about his state loyalties ahead of this weekend's highly anticipated AFL State of Origin confrontation at Optus Stadium.
From Texas to Perth: A New Allegiance
Raised in Texas, United States, and having spent over a decade in Melbourne, Cox now calls Perth home after joining the Dockers on a two-year contract following eleven seasons with Collingwood. The thirty-four-year-old naturalised Australian citizen made his position clear, stating his residency in Western Australia solidifies his support for the local side.
"I live in WA now, so I guess you could consider me a WA boy. I'm Australian, I've got Australian citizenship, so I have ticked that box off, but I'm now resident of Western Australia. So I think I have to go with the locals," Cox told The West Australian.
Teammate Connections and Aerial Battles
Cox emphasised his excitement to back his Dockers teammates, including Luke Jackson, who will feature for Western Australia. He previewed the match while attending a preview of Crown Perth's new Urban Food District, which opens on Friday and is conveniently located within walking distance of Optus Stadium.
When questioned about whether the game's outcome would hinge on aerial contests, Cox responded enthusiastically, "I sure as hell hope so!" He noted the significant tall talent on both sides, highlighting Victoria's lineup featuring players like Max Gawn, Sam Darcy, and Ben King.
"I think, obviously, you're going to have a lot of aerial power on that team (Victoria), and it'll be great fun to kind of see all of them and how they're going to intertwine with each other," he added.
Historic Clash and Team Dynamics
This marks the first State of Origin battle since 1999, promising a star-studded spectacle. Western Australia will field homegrown talents such as former All Australian Tim English, Collingwood's 2025 best and fairest winner Darcy Cameron, and premiership player Luke Jackson.
Victoria's squad includes North Melbourne's 2025 best and fairest winner Tristan Xerri and the acclaimed big man Max Gawn, with superstar captain Marcus Bontempelli leading the travelling party that arrived in Perth on Wednesday night.
Cox suggested the match offers a perfect opportunity for creative team strategies, saying, "I think if there's a time to have a bit of fun with it, and just to be able to throw guys around, throw the magnets around, as they would say, I think this is the time to do it."
Dockers Representation and Future Prospects
Additional Fremantle players set to participate include Jordan Clark for Western Australia and Caleb Serong for Victoria. Serong recently secured a seven-year contract extension, committing to the Dockers until the end of 2034.
Cox concluded by expressing his anticipation for the event, noting it would provide fans with a thrilling display of top-tier talent united on single teams. The clash is poised to be a significant moment in AFL history, reigniting state rivalries after a long hiatus.
