Collingwood cult hero Mason Cox stuns AFL world — fans left emotional as the American giant drops a powerful farewell message and hints at a shocking next move 👀🇺🇸

 

 

Collingwood Football Club has bid farewell to one of its most beloved figures, Mason Cox — the towering American whose remarkable journey from college basketball to AFL premiership glory captured the hearts of fans across Australia. The 34-year-old, who first picked up an Australian Rules football in his early twenties, was officially informed that he would not be offered a contract for the 2026 season, marking the end of an extraordinary chapter in the club’s history.

Cox, who stands at an imposing 211 centimeters, was more than just a footballer — he was a symbol of persistence, resilience, and belief. Arriving from Texas with no experience in the sport, he faced skepticism and mockery early in his career. Yet over the span of a decade, he turned doubters into admirers, wearing the black and white jersey 139 times and booting 127 goals. His impact went far beyond numbers; he became a cult hero, a fan favorite, and a proud ambassador for the growing international reach of Australian Rules Football.

 

In an emotional video posted to his 126,000 Instagram followers, Cox addressed the Collingwood faithful with heartfelt gratitude. “Unfortunately, I’ll be not wearing the black and white anymore,” he began. “I just wanted to send a massive thank you to everyone who has shown me so much love and care over the years.” Throughout the video, he repeatedly described his career as “crazy,” reflecting on the surreal nature of his journey from an unknown athlete in America to a premiership player in one of the AFL’s most storied clubs.

“It’s crazy to think that I’d never even heard of this sport,” Cox said, smiling through emotion. “To come here, learn it, work my way up, and become a premiership player — that’s just wild to say out loud.” He thanked teammates, coaches, and fans alike, crediting them for shaping his growth both on and off the field.

 

Collingwood’s list manager, Justin Leppitsch, confirmed on Saturday that both Cox and fellow premiership teammate Tom Mitchell would not be offered new contracts for 2026. “We thank Tom and Mason for their contribution to the club,” Leppitsch said. “They are premiership players who have left a significant mark on the Collingwood Football Club. Tom joined with a wealth of experience and was an incredible asset for our side. Unfortunately, his injuries in 2024 limited his time on the field this year, but his leadership and knowledge have been invaluable.”

Leppitsch continued with high praise for Cox: “Mason moved across the world to play a sport he’d never played before and worked tirelessly to master its unique skills. His dedication to Collingwood and the game itself is a credit to who he is as a person. We understand both Mason and Tom are keen to explore opportunities elsewhere, and we wish them nothing but the best for the future.”

 

For Cox, his time at Collingwood was full of dramatic highs and unforgettable moments. He famously battled through adversity after suffering a detached retina in 2019, which required multiple surgeries and forced him to wear protective prescription goggles on the field. The goggles, initially a medical necessity, soon became part of his iconic image, enhancing the theatre surrounding his larger-than-life presence on the field. His best performances often came when the stakes were highest — none more memorable than his dominant display in the 2018 Preliminary Final, which fans still recall with awe.

In his farewell video, Cox reflected on the emotional connection he shared with the Collingwood faithful. “The best supporters in the world have shown me so much love and compassion,” he said. “It’s hard to explain the feeling of standing out there with a hundred thousand people chanting ‘U-S-A’ at the MCG. That’s something I’ll never forget.”

 

Even though his Collingwood chapter has closed, Cox hinted that his AFL career might not be over just yet. “It’s come to a close here at the Collingwood Football Club,” he said, “but I’m excited about what’s next. Love you guys — and go Pies.”

 

His farewell message quickly went viral, amassing more than 33,000 likes and thousands of comments from fans, teammates, and notable figures in the AFL community. Former Collingwood ruckman Brodie Grundy wrote: “What an incredible video! This is so special, Mason. You should be so proud. I’m so proud of you! It was an absolute joy playing alongside you for so many years.”

Comedian and lifelong Collingwood supporter Peter Helliar also paid tribute, calling Cox’s story “one of the great tales not just in Collingwood history, but in AFL history.” Helliar reminisced about Cox’s debut on Anzac Day and the years that followed, describing him as a “cult hero and a bloody valuable player” who handled everything with “class and humour.” He also recalled the unforgettable 2018 Preliminary Final, calling it “one of the best nights I’ve ever had at the footy.”

 

Captain Darcy Moore’s message was short but powerful: “So proud of you, my friend.” Teammate Jeremy Howe praised Cox’s persistence, while AFL media personality Abbey Holmes added: “Bloody love ya! Very proud of you.” Even music star Tones and I joined in, commenting: “Big Mase!! Love you.”

Meanwhile, Tom Mitchell’s departure also marks the end of a significant career chapter. The 32-year-old, who previously starred for Sydney and Hawthorn, has played 207 AFL games, earned two All-Australian selections, and took home the 2018 Brownlow Medal. Although injuries limited his impact in 2025, his influence within the Collingwood locker room and on younger players was widely acknowledged.

 

Cox’s influence extended beyond statistics and accolades. His story became a living example of what’s possible with hard work and belief. For fans, his journey was a reminder that greatness can come from the most unlikely beginnings. He wasn’t just an import who learned a new sport; he became part of the club’s DNA — embraced by the Magpie Army as one of their own. His iconic celebrations, his humility, and his unwavering passion made him a symbol of perseverance in modern sport.

 

Even as he departs, the image of Mason Cox — goggles on, arms raised high after a towering mark or a crucial goal — will remain etched in Collingwood folklore. He arrived as a curiosity from Oklahoma and leaves as a cult hero who defied expectations and won a premiership medal along the way.

 

As the curtain closes on his Collingwood journey, the next chapter awaits — one that could yet involve another AFL club or perhaps an entirely new adventure. Whatever path he takes, one thing is certain: Mason Cox’s story will continue to inspire athletes and dreamers alike, both in Australia and across the world.

 

In his final words to fans, Cox summed it up perfectly: “This has been the craziest ride of my life. I’ll forever be thankful for the people, the memories, and the love I’ve felt here. Go Pies.”