WHITTLESEA’S favourite footballing son, Trent Cotchin, has had the ball in his sights since he was a small boy.
Richmond’s 22-year-old midfield gun, who is tipped to be the club’s next captain, was only five when he disclosed his secret to his father, Wollert businessman Peter Cotchin.
Peter said: “He was playing for the under nines (Reservoir Colts) and had an uncanny sense of knowing where the ball would be next.
“Trent said he could tell by his competitor’s eyes where they were kicking.
“The ability to know where the ball will be next is his secret weapon – it means he can be there first.”
Trent has been awarded a second successive best and fairest award, or Jack Dyer Medal, by Richmond after an outstanding 2012 season.
Trent, who played 22 games this season, scored No.1 in the club for total disposals with 606 and was ranked No.2 for his 273 contested possessions.
His father said that although the win was “impressive”, his son was level-headed about his success.
“He treats it like his job – he doesn’t get overawed,” Peter said. “Trent’s got his head screwed on … he has a 30-year-old head on his 22-year-old shoulders.”
