One year ago, Oliver ‘Oli’ Cockle was playing U16s football for the Jets. Now, at just 17 years old, he is lining up week in week out for our Infrabuild Academy Boys Youth Team, where he is lighting up the FNSW League One with his dazzling footwork and array of finishes.
Oli started the season playing both U18s and U20s at the club, but has since burst onto the scene with the Youth team, scoring nine goals in just twelve starts, making him their top scorer. On his Youth team debut, off of the bench against Hills United, he scored an important equaliser that helped to secure a come-from-behind 2-1 victory.
“My favourite moment (for the Jets) was when I was subbed on vs Hills in my debut for the youth team and scored a goal in the team’s win. I was nervous but focused on helping in any way I could to help the team win”
Oli started his journey in football in the Cayman Islands at the age of four. Once he moved to Australia, he played for Cooks Hill up until the age of eleven, when he joined the Newcastle Jets Academy. Aside from a year away at Broadmeadow Magic, Oli has climbed through the ranks of the Academy to now being a vital member of the Youth team competing for promotion into the NPL NSW.
On the field, Oli has demonstrated a strong ability to beat defenders off the dribble, as well as having a keen eye for a pass to compliment his finishing prowess. He is also comfortable playing anywhere across the frontline, having been deployed as a striker, as well as out wide or as a 10. His versatility has been key in developing his understanding of the game.
“I feel as though being able to play in those positions has helped me technically and allows me to still be able to score and assist. It gives me a greater understanding of the game.”
Oli has already started earning recognition for his ability, having represented Northern NSW at the 2023 and 2024 Australian Youth Championships (now Emerging Socceroos Championships). Oli played a part in the Northern NSW U16s securing third place at the 2024 edition, scoring a goal in the quarter-final against Football NSW Metro White, as well as setting up another in the third place playoff against Football Victoria Blue.
“Nationals was a great experience not only because it was a success but because the team bonded together really well. We travelled as a team and as we progressed through the tournament the enjoyment grew and we recognised the need for supporting each other both on and off the field.”
Full Video: https://youtu.be/6QtzJQfsECc?si=MMSG7Xc4KghXcGkw
Additionally, Oli was recognised for his play at the Jets 24/25 end of season awards night, where he was awarded the Male Emerging Jet award. The award recognises outstanding performances within the club’s academy.
“The (Emerging Jet) award was a complete surprise, but I was very glad to be considered for it. This year has been so rewarding because of the support I’ve had from the Jets coaches and wider supporting team, including my teammates. I was honoured to be recognised by them.”
The Youth team still have nine games to attempt to secure one of the top two spots to gain promotion into the NPL NSW, which has become a key goal for Oliver and the rest of the team.
“My goal for the rest of the season is to help the team in any way I can to keep winning. The ultimate goal is to reach the top of the ladder so the Jets can get promoted. If any opportunities arise in and around the A-league space to train or play that would be great as well.”
The Boys Youth Team will be back in action this Saturday, the 5th of July against Bulls FC Academy. Kickoff is 7pm at Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility.
