Rutten’s pre-season message to young gun Nik Cox

ESSENDON young gun Nik Cox has made an immediate impact at AFL level.

Cox, 19, has played all 12 games in 2021 and received a Rising Star nomination after a season-high 23-disposal showing against reigning premiers Richmond in Saturday’s Dreamtime clash.

The 200-centermeter tall wingman told SEN’s Dwayne’s World that Bombers coach Ben Rutten showed immediate faith in him as soon as he arrived at Tullamarine.

“From the moment I got into the club he was really confident in me,” Cox said.

“He said, ‘There’s no reason you can’t have an impact instantly’ and he didn’t really put a ceiling on me which was good for my confidence (going into the season).

“He told me what I needed to do in terms of the way we want to play on the wing. He said, ‘Just bring your natural strength’ in my running which definitely helps.

“He’s made me feel really comfortable out there.”

Cox, selected with pick number eight in last year’s draft, is averaging 13.2 disposals and 4.6 marks per game and has also chipped in with eight goals.

– BY ALEX ZAIA/ SEN