Reformed AFL Star Ben Cousins Surprises Teammate with Heartfelt Gesture

Ben Cousins’ Heartwarming Gesture Highlights Redemption Journey

Former West Coast Eagles captain Ben Cousins continues to rebuild his life and legacy, recently surprising departing staff member Jess with a touching farewell gift—a signed boot—during her final days at the club. The once-troubled AFL star, whose career was derailed by addiction, has become a symbol of resilience, earning praise for his humility and generosity.

A Thoughtful Goodbye
Cousins approached ticketing coordinator Jess with a grin, handing her the personalized memento. “Thank you for all your help—we drive you mad, I know,” he said. Jess, visibly moved, replied, “You didn’t have to,” to which Cousins insisted, “It’s the least we can do.” The club shared the moment on social media, captioning it: “A special farewell gift from Cuzzy to thank Jess for her time at the Eagles.”

Caption: Ben Cousins smiles warmly as he presents a signed boot to departing West Coast Eagles staff member Jess.

Fans flooded the comments, applauding his growth. “So good to see Cuz at the club and looking healthy,” one wrote. Others joked about his physique, with queries about a comeback: “Get him on the list—he looks fitter than when he was playing!”

Small Gestures, Big Impact
This act is part of Cousins’ ongoing efforts to give back. Earlier this year, he stood alongside 2006 premiership teammates at the funeral of Adam Selwood, showing support for the late star’s family. He also visited close friend Chass Guthrie before his cancer-related passing, later sharing an emotional tribute. In another instance, he quietly visited a fan’s hospitalized wife, earning praise as a “legend on and off the field.”

Caption: Once plagued by addiction, the 2006 premiership captain continues to rebuild his legacy.

From Rock Bottom to Redemption
Cousins’ past struggles are well-documented. The Brownlow Medal winner faced a dramatic fall from grace, including a 2007 AFL ban, drug addiction, and a 2017 prison stint for offenses linked to his addiction. By 2020, post-release, he began rebuilding his life.

Caption: The boot presentation is the latest small but significant gesture from Cousins, who also attended the funeral of former teammate Adam Selwood.

A New Chapter
Now a media personality, Cousins works with 7NEWS Perth as a boundary rider and made a charming appearance on Dancing with the Stars. He’s also involved in community coaching, mentoring young athletes at Queens Park Football Club.

Caption: Cousins has re-emerged as a public figure, balancing media work and community outreach.

Caption: The once-troubled star showcased his lighter side on Dancing with the Stars.

While his past remains a cautionary tale, Cousins’ recent actions highlight a man determined to rewrite his story—one heartfelt gesture at a time.

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