Axemen add Manitoba linebacker Braxten Cockell for 2026 season

The Acadia Axemen football program has added size, leadership, and defensive production with the commitment of Manitoba linebacker Braxten Cockell for the 2026 Atlantic University Sport season. 

Cockell, a 6'1, 205-pound linebacker and edge rusher from Winnipeg, is a graduate of Vincent Massey Collegiate, where he developed into one of the top defensive players in the Winnipeg High School Football League.

He enjoyed a standout career with the Vincent Massey Trojans, earning league defensive player of the year honours, first-team all-star recognition, and multiple team awards. Cockell captained the Trojans during his senior seasons and helped lead the program to a junior varsity championship in 2023. 

In 2025, he led Vincent Massey defensively in nearly every statistical category, recording 48 tackles, three sacks, 10 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. Over his final two high school seasons, Cockell compiled more than 100 total tackles, highlighting his consistency and durability at the linebacker position.

Cockell also gained experience at the provincial level, competing with Team Manitoba at the Canada Cup and in Western Canadian showcase events. That exposure helped him adjust to higher levels of competition while continuing to refine his physical style of play and defensive awareness.

He said the opportunity to continue his football career at Acadia was both meaningful and motivating.

“It’s a blessing to be able to continue my athletic career at the university level,” Cockell said. “There are always new heights to reach, and Acadia offers an environment where I can push myself and be pushed to improve every day. The coaches, the players, and the welcoming feel of Wolfville made the decision an easy one.”

Cockell credited his coaches and family for helping him reach the next level and said the commitment reflects years of perseverance and personal growth.

He will enroll in Acadia’s business program