VALE – Mike Cockerill

Football NSW was stunned and deeply shocked to hear the news of the tragic passing of well-respected and adored football journalist Mike Cockerill.

Mike was a huge advocate for the beautiful game as a journalist, football pundit and match commentator and was one of the very few in the media industry that clearly respected the Australian game ever since its National Soccer League days.

Having covered numerous FIFA World Cups as well as Hyundai A-League and National Soccer League seasons along with supporting our very own NPL clubs, Mike’s knowledge of the game was second to none.

Mike also loved the game as a grassroots footballer and enjoyed playing for the likes of the Enfield Rovers and Fraser Park in the Over 45’s such was his hunger for the game – he was also spotted many times around our football pitches in Sydney supporting the NPL.

In 2011 he was inducted into the Football Federation Australia Hall of Fame and rightly so as he played a pivotal role in preserving the history of our very own sport.

It was Mike that also encouraged so many current journalists and football pundits to work for the love of the game, a gentleman and true scholar, his wise words, expert commentary and witty sense of humour to those that knew him will be sorely missed.

A true legend of our sport lost but will never be forgotten.

Football NSW wishes to pass on its deepest condolences to the Cockerill family, may he rest in heavenly peace.