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.
Off the field, Damien cherishes his young daughter Willow and this week welcomed baby Jagger to the family.
“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”.
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