Micaelas Milestone, Cocks Keen to Extend Appearance Record at The Fire Pit
Micaela Cocks has claimed three championships with the Fire while her list of individual honours, is as impressive as it is long. She’s secured the club’s commitment to excellence award on three occasions and twice been named the coaches’ best player. The veteran has also won five players’ player awards and received the Rachael Sporn medal for an influential grand final performance. But her latest achievement might just top them all. The New Zealander became JCU Townsville Fire’s most capped player when she made her 229th WNBL appearance against the Boomers in Melbourne last weekend, with Fire fans eager to celebrate that feat, when the team hosts Adelaide on Friday night. Cocks reflected on how Townsville’s supporters have played their part, in her breaking the record.
“They’re very passionate. From the start until now they’ve really stuck by me, personally and us as a club and I’m proud to be a one club player and it’s obviously an honour to be the most capped player.”
Club legend Rachael McCully couldn’t be happier, her friend is now number one on the list.
“I wouldn’t have wanted anyone else to overtake my record, Mic is one of the hardest working players and most loyal people I know, and she’s actually a great mate of mine, so I’m just so happy for her.”
McCully knew the Fire had signed someone special when Cocks arrived at the club over a decade ago.
“I was just so surprised by her work ethic. She was always working on her game and things like that. And I think it’s gotten stronger over the years, like to still be playing at that level after having a kid, I don’t know if I could have done that.”
Current teammate Mia Murray was recruited at the same time and also recalled being blown away by her fellow signing.
“From the moment that I met her and the first time I saw her on the court, she was just this different type of athlete, just with her attitude and commitment, especially to fitness.”
Townsville’s co-captain has urged her the stalwart to continue playing for a few more seasons. Murray knows the guard’s body will hold up.
“Mic could play to forty if she wanted to. I honestly reckon she could. I would love to continue being her teammate for a long time.”
Cocks kept her cards a little closer to her chest.
“Physically I can keep going, it just depends on what happens with family…. and children.”
The Kiwi can’t see herself playing anywhere else.
“The club’s built a really good culture and while there’s been some up and downs throughout the years, Townsville’s been a really great place to have a professional sporting career and it’s been a wonderful home away from home.”
Four of the five most capped Fire players are still involved with the club. Micaela and Mia (196) on the court, Tania Baxter (131) as an assistant coach and Suzy Batkovic (164) as a Board Director
Get your tickets to the Fire Pit for tomorrow nights game and celebrate this historic moment with Micaela here