Union City senior third baseman Kamryn Cook is determined to make every moment of her final high school season count, both for herself and for the younger players who look up to her. Her favorite part of being a member of the Union City High School softball team is the bond she shares with her teammates, a connection she says makes the grind of practices and games worthwhile. “They make every memory unforgettable.”
Cook, who plays travel ball year-round with Evolution Bender, credits her parents for shaping her work ethic and resilience on and off the field. “My parents inspire me the most, they’ve always encouraged me to work hard, believe in myself and never give up.” That mentality shows in the way she approaches her role at third base, where she embraces being a leader for the program. “I’m playing 3rd base, I enjoy being able to coach up the younger girls and be a great role model for them to look up to.”
Summer practices have reinforced her optimism about the future of Union City softball. “Our summer practices are going great, we have a lot of younger girls coming in and they are showing a lot of potential.” Cook said she was influenced by seniors on a former travel team who helped her see the bigger picture of the sport. “The Seniors from last travel ball group made a great impression on how I look at the game, they told me it’s not just softball it’s about having fun and meeting some of your best friends!”
Cook believes her strengths are a complete game and a strong feel for softball strategy. “I believe the strengths of my game are both offense and defense along with my softball IQ. I’m always working to become more consistent at the plate.” A lesson from last season continues to guide her mindset. “The lesson that I learned last year is that we all need to be there in the moment and not be worried about what’s after or what’s to come.”
This spring will be a bridge to her next chapter. “I’m a senior at Union City. After graduation, I’ll be attending Oklahoma Panhandle State University to continue my softball career while earning my bachelor’s degree in health and physical education. My goal is to become a teacher and coach.”
