25 August 2022
One of the most recognisable players in the NRL, Damien Cook career has risen to become a fixture of the NSW Origin team and earn an Australian Kangaroo jumper as our Test dummy-half.
After stints at St George Illawarra and Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs, Damien found a home at the South Sydney Rabbitohs and is now one of the game’s elite players.
Damien’s trademark is his explosive speed off the mark which makes him a handful for rival teams to contain around the ruck, and he will be using that to great effect as the Rabbitohs make a run towards the finals.
He has now played more than 150 games for the Rabbitohs, 15 Origins for NSW and 4 Tests for the Kangaroos and at age 31, he still has plenty of years left at the elite level.
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Off the field, Damien cherishes his young daughter Willow and this week welcomed baby Jagger to the family.
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“The best thing about being a dad is watching my little princess (Willow) grow up and teaching her new things and as long as she has a smile on her face I’m happy,” Damien said with a proud smile. “Sometimes I could be having a really bad day or a bad loss and I just want to see her an give her a cuddle as it put everything in perspective … it makes everything ok because to her I’m just daddy, her best friend who plays with her and her protector.”
“My favourite time is bed time I always read a text book or two to Willow before she goes to sleep. Her favourites are Noisy Farm, Dear Little Princess or Going on a Bear Hunt”.
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One thing about Willow which surprises everyone - especially in lockdown together last year - is how well she remembers everyone’s names! Not just naming the team but also the numbers they wear, like Daddy number 9 , Trell number 1! She also knows some of the staff at the club as well. Wayne Bennett and Willow had a special bond up there in Queensland last year and Willow even called him Pa which he loved! Her favourites at the moment are Campbell, Keaon, Lachy and Cam … who also has a barbie doll named after him!
Damien