By Payton Moody 

Cambry Cook, a student-athlete at Stigler High School in Oklahoma, has made a remarkable impact both in the world of softball and academics. 

Reflecting on her journey, she credits her coaches for shaping her into the player she is today. “In my childhood, my coach Ashley Engle helped me develop my love for the game,” Cook said. “As I got into junior high and high school, Tyler Guthrie and Adam Engle were my coaches. Tyler and Adam constantly worked with me and believed in me.”

In addition to her coaches, Cook’s admiration extends to her teammates, particularly her close-knit group known as the “Fab 5”: “We grew up playing together ever since we were 8. We’ve been through a lot together and I will always admire and appreciate them.”

Cook also acknowledges the role of her favorite teacher, Mr. Shimp, who helped her improve her artistic skills. ” I enjoy making art outside of softball, and Mr. Shimp helped me improve my skills,” Cook said. “Also, I have another teacher who is like my school mom. Her name is Mrs. Boren. She is always there for me if I need her, and I greatly appreciate her.”

Cook has imbibed valuable life lessons from softball. “The most important one to me is hard work,” Cook said. “I work very hard in the classroom, too. I make straight A’s and I’m also in the running for Valedictorian.”

As she approaches her senior season, Cook has set ambitious goals, including leading her team to the state competition and achieving personal milestones: “Since my junior season just ended, my goals for my senior season are to go to state and compete, hit my 500 career strikeouts, and get a hit to walk-off a big game.”

Beyond high school, Cook intends to pursue higher education. “After high school I plan to go to college,” Cook said. “I’m not 100% sure what I want to do yet. I’ve thought about doing counseling or teaching. I really want to attend UAFS.”

Cambry Cook’s journey in softball and academics is shaped by dedicated coaches, supportive teammates and influential teachers.