Former AFL star Ben Cousins, and his partner, naturopath Maylea Tinecheff, welcomed a son on September 16, who they have named Bobby Ernest. Bobby Cousins was born at St John of God Hospital in Perth, Western Australia. Maylea has two children from a previous relationship, but nothing is known about them; however, Bobby does have siblings.

Ben is often said to be one of the greatest AFL players of all time. During his career with the West Coast Eagles, he won the Brownlow Medal, Most Valuable Player, and a premiership medallion. He was selected six times for the All-Australia team, and represented Australia in the International Rules series. He was West Coast’s club champion for four seasons, and captain for five seasons. He retired last year.

Unfortunately, his off-field activities, including recreational drug use, traffic convictions, and associations with criminals have plagued his personal life. Hopefully fatherhood will provide the motivation for him to stay clean and healthy. Ben and Maylea have known each other for 16 years, and have been together in a rekindled relationship since 2009.

(Full story and photos in New Idea magazine).