Former AFL player Ben Cousins to read morning sports news for Seven Perth
Decorated but troubled former AFL player Ben Cousins has debuted on the Seven Perth news desk reading the morning sports news.
The role, which he started this week, expands on Cousins’ existing deal with the network where he already features in a weekly segment on 7News breaking down the week’s play. He will now present for Perth’s morning news bulletin three days a week.
Seven’s Ben Cousins presenting the sports headlines during the Perth morning bulletin
“It’s been fun. A journey, but I’m learning every day,” Cousins told Seven’s Perth Now. “I can tell you, as the words scroll through, it’s harder than it looks.”
Seven Network in Perth news director Ray Kuka said Cousins was a welcome regular addition to the news team.
“You can see why Cousins was a footy star. He’s of course got natural ability, but his work ethic is incredibly impressive,” Kuka said.
“His ability to focus, apply and strive for the best is a credit to him. It, of course, doesn’t hurt that the camera loves him.”
Cousins was one of the most decorated AFL players in the league’s history throughout his career with the West Coast Eagles, winning the Brownlow Medal and the Leigh Matthews Trophy in 2005 and AFL Rising Star in 1996.
But he was also known for his off-the-field controversies, including arrests related to drug possession, public intoxication, attempting to flee police, violence, stalking and breaching restraining orders during and after his playing career. His first incident dated as far back as 2006 and the most recent arrest was in 2018.
According to Perth Now Cousins has slowly been returning to the limelight with his work at Seven, a coaching role with the Perth Demons,and recently suiting up again for the Eagles in an exhibition game earlier this year.
You honestly can’t make this up hahaha
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This is bloody weird given Mainwaring having done this role and the role of cousins in that whole era. At least it’s not BRS I guess.
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What is it with Channel 7 hiring disgraced AFL stars? He and Wayne Carey have both had DV charges against them, Ben even went to jail for breaching his restraining order and has [moderated under Mumbrella’s comment moderation policy], but hey as long as they were both good footy players, can’t we all forgive that? Aren’t there any worthy sports journos in WA to choose from? Between these two and BRS … [moderated under Mumbrella’s comment moderation policy]
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He looks terrific. All the best to him.
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Bold decision.
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Chris Judd once said of Cousins, don’t judge a person by their worst habits. There are a lot of people out there who need to see role models for hope and the ability to bounce back. Regardless of who might or might not be suited for the job, I applaud a human who can come back from the brink and prove to us all that it’s OK to give people another chance.
Like the news director points out, he has a natural ability and incredibly impressive work ethic. Bravo, Ben.
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Best news for the day, Ben what a lovely guy you deserve it.
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