Footy as a Release: Power’s Rookie Opens Up About His Struggles with Tourette’s

Exclusive: The path to the AFL for Port Adelaide rookie Tom Cochrane has been more challenging than for many others.

For the past decade, he has engaged in a relentless struggle to manage the effects of Tourette’s syndrome on his body.

This unforgiving condition involves an ongoing battle with uncontrollable physical and vocal tics.

The 19-year-old has endured a daily challenge due to the physical and vocal tics that also impacted his school life.

“School was extremely tough because I found it hard to enjoy. I would sit through classes, unable to concentrate, while my tics would frequently emerge,” he remarked.

Football became his sanctuary, with the game providing a welcome distraction that lessened his tics.

A passionate supporter of Port Adelaide, he realised his dream of being drafted to the rookie list despite the obstacles posed by Tourette’s, which at one stage complicated his ability to partake in football owing to his medication’s side effects.

“Footy really acts as an escape for me, as I can forget about my tics when I’m focused on something I love,” he explained.

The family’s challenges deepened when Tom’s father, Stuart Cochrane, a former Port Adelaide player with 53 games to his name, was suddenly hospitalised and diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

At times, the family faced the grim possibility of loss.

“I feel very fortunate to be here,” Stuart stated.

“Growing up knowing your dad is very unwell and uncertain of his future while also dealing with Tourette’s has certainly been tough for (Tom).

“However, he has coped remarkably well, and we couldn’t be prouder of him.”

Tom’s resolve to motivate others encouraged him to open up about his experiences with his Power teammates. This decision, while initially intimidating, was met with overwhelming support and encouragement.

His current aspiration is to become the first player with Tourette’s to compete in the AFL, striving to motivate others to embrace their uniqueness and rise above their challenges.

“Having Tourette’s doesn’t define your humanity; we’re all still just people,” he asserted.

This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.