Background
McCorkell was born in Sale, Victoria to parents Francis, a policeman, and Mary.
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Jock McCorkell
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Education
He attended Street Josephs Canadian Broadcasting Company North Melbourne between 1932 and 1935 and while there completed his Intermediate Certificate.
Career
When the family moved to North Melbourne, close to the home ground of what was to become his cherished football club later in life, he made good use of the facilities available. McCorkell continued his connection with the school through his involvement in its Old Boys Association. The 1953 Golden Jubilee annual of Street Josephs College describes him as being a, "..very popular and skillful full-back".
lieutenant goes on to mention that he also played for Victoria in the States representative team
Interstate matches in Australian rules football were considered very important and a showcase for the talents of its players. "On leaving school McCorkell continued his athletic pursuits and during his early life was considered an excellent runner.
In 1935 while competing with the Carlton Harriers he was running faster times than men placed in divisions above his, in particular the 220 yard dash. In January 1940 McCorkell entered the Australian Army and joined the 6th Battalion with the rank of Private.
In 1954 he was appointed coach and took the side into the season finals but they were defeated in the first round, eventually placing third on the ladder that year.
During the following year the team met stiff opposition from its opponents eventually slipping to eleventh place. Following the disastrous 1955 season McCorkell announced his retirement from league football. He stated he was unable to provide the effort and time required to carry out the duties of coach at a successful level
McCorkell continued his work in the Public Service after moving to live in Essendon.
Achievements
Membership
Three years later he signed for service overseas, and, as a Lance sergeant, became a member of the Australian Special Intelligence Personnel Section before finally being discharged in December 1945. On his return from army service he resumed his playing career and for the next eight seasons was a valuable member of the North Melbourne team until breaking his leg in 1953.
