Cushing High School senior Cole Cooper is a force on the field, bringing grit and heart to every snap. A versatile athlete, Cooper lines up at inside linebacker, defensive end, and fullback, making him a valuable leader on both sides of the ball.
For Cooper, motivation comes from within. “What motivates me most is knowing my future depends solely on me,” he said. That drive, paired with lessons learned from his grandfather Doug Cooper, who inspired his love for the game, has shaped the player he is today.
Football is about more than just wins and losses for Cooper. He leans on the wisdom of Kobe Bryant: “Sacrifice is the key to success.” That mindset carries over into all areas of his life, whether it’s putting in extra reps at practice, studying film with teammate and fellow linebacker Kellen Fry, or sacrificing time with friends to stay ahead in the classroom.
Some of his most memorable moments on the field have come in rivalry games. “My favorite memory is beating Perkins for the last time and going to celebrate with all the guys,” Cooper shared. The Perkins rivalry has been a constant for him, making those victories even sweeter.
Beyond the field, Cooper finds strength and grounding in his faith. He’s active in FCA, enjoys fellowshipping with friends about the Lord, and values the time he spends at church with his family.
When asked about influences, Cooper points to both his grandfather and Coach Fry, whose class provided a space to talk football and life. He also admires Arizona State’s Cam Skattebo for his toughness and authenticity both on and off the field.
Representing Cushing on Friday nights means everything to Cooper. “Being able to represent the name on the jersey every Friday night is something special. It feels good to play with a whole town rooting for you,” he said.
His advice to younger athletes is simple but powerful: “Always keep God first. Never be afraid to do the hard things. Always be completely selfless on the field.”
With his mindset, work ethic, and faith, Cole Cooper is leaving his mark on Cushing football both as a player and a leader.
