SEASIDE, Calif. — In his third year as a collegiate golfer, Alex Cooke's journey has been anything but ordinary.
After enduring two major wrist surgeries and losing his roster spot at Grand Canyon University, Cooke found himself in the transfer portal this summer. With no results to promote his skills, he was unsure of his next destination.
"I almost didn't come on my visit to CSUMB, but I thought it wouldn't hurt, and I wanted to see Monterey," Cooke admitted.
During his visit to Monterey, Cooke had a transformative conversation with Head Coach Jason Owen. Cooke immediately recognized Coach Owen's elite coaching background and shared passion for mental toughness and discipline.
"Coach Owen is the reason I chose CSUMB," Cooke stated. "My number one priority in the portal was to go somewhere with elite coaching that would help my development."
Having spent the majority of his first two years in college unable to compete, Cooke developed a profound appreciation for the opportunity to be a college athlete.
"I've developed a much deeper appreciation and gratitude for the opportunity to be a college athlete and to continue competing in the game that God has blessed me with the ability to play," Cooke expressed.
Cooke missed the thrill of competition, the pressure of being in contention, and the significance of every shot.
"When I felt it again in Hawaii, it reminded me just how much I'd missed that rush," Cooke exclaimed.
One of the highlights of Cooke's experience at CSUMB has been the team workouts at 7 a.m.
"Coach Owen pushes us both physically and mentally, and I love that," Cooke emphasized. "It's a refreshing reminder of how much I enjoy the grind and the constant quest to get better every day."
Cooke thrives in a competitive environment where the team pushes each other to be their best. He hopes that the team remains committed and intentional in their efforts, aiming for big accomplishments, such as winning the conference and making a run at the national championship.
Individually, Cooke has set ambitious goals for himself, including winning a national championship. However, he understands the importance of focusing on the process rather than the outcomes.
"I focus more on the controllables to help me achieve the outcomes that I want," Cooke explained. "It's about stacking good days on top of each other and doing the little things with purpose."
Looking beyond college, Cooke's main goal is to put himself in a position to play golf professionally.
"I am putting all my chips into this, working as hard as I can to make this my reality," he said.
However, if golf isn't in his future, Cooke is prepared to shift his focus to becoming the best doctor he can be, as he is currently a pre-med student.
"No matter the pursuit, my mindset will stay the same," Cooke emphasized. "I believe you have to be all in on what you are doing if you want to succeed."
With Coach Owen's guidance, Cooke is ready to embrace every challenge and opportunity that comes his way, both on and off the golf course.
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GO OTTERS!
