Nakia’s grandfather Robert played in the club’s reserves and under 19’s teams throughout the 80’s, and is described by former team-mate Darren Crocker as ‘one of the most talented players’ he ever lined up alongside.
Crocker recalls Robert kicking seven goals in a half in the Statewide Cup at Lakeside Oval, before he hurt his knee. Nakia's father Jason is also considered a legend of the NTFL.
Football ability clearly runs in the family and 17-year-old Nakia took plenty from the opportunity to work with some of the Kangaroos’ stars.
“It already feels like I’ve been drafted to an AFL team, I love it. It’s been a really good week,” Cockatoo told NMFC.com.au.
“If I did (get drafted) I would love to come back here, knowing the boys already, it would be pretty easy to fit right in. I would miss home, but not as much if I came back to North Melbourne because everyone has already made me feel welcome.”
Cockatoo found exactly what is required of a professional footballer, living with Shaun Atley and Jamie Macmillan.
“They’ve been looking after me this week and I’ve really enjoyed staying with them. They told me to always be on time. I also learned that hard work and professionalism is everything.”
But it was a goal-kicker who left the biggest mark.
“Lindsay Thomas impressed me the most; the way he slips out of tackles it’s pretty amazing.”
Melbourne’s stifling temperatures didn’t deter Cockatoo from working hard on the training track.
“It’s worse than Darwin, the wind is so hot…but I pushed through it, I loved it still despite the weather,” he added.
“The pre-season is so tough but I’m always trying to push further, I’m never one to complain, I just get on with things.
“The grappling was probably the hardest part, the bear hugs are the one thing I wouldn’t like doing but just got along with it.”
Cockatoo is now looking forward to his next unforgettable trip; the AIS-AFL Academy’s tour of Europe in April where North and AFL recruiting staff will no doubt be keeping a close eye on his progress.
