The Williamstown VFL player was today recruited to fill the last available spot on the Club’s rookie list via the SSP (supplemental selection period).

The position was made vacant after Cam Ellis-Yolmen was placed on the inactive list.

The 24-year-old impressed the Lions coaching and football department staff during a two-week trial.

Although opportunities to push his claims in training and match play were limited by the severe weather that pounded the State during his trial period, he showed a great work ethic and positive attitude around the Club.

Cox crossed from Frankston to Williamstown in the off-season to reduce his work commute and create more time to focus on his football.

He comes off the best season of his career in the 2021 VFL competition. 

Lions GM of Football Danny Daly said Cox had earned his chance at AFL with his attitude during his trial and the continued growth of his game he had displayed in the VFL.

“We feel that when immersed in a fulltime AFL program he has the capacity to continue to develop,’’ he said.

“He’s a mature bodied player and we believe the significant improvements he has made to his running capability will allow him to be an asset at AFL level.

“His agility through traffic also allows him to play multiple roles and we look forward to watching him continue to grow as a footballer.’’