Kerri-Anne Cook honored during dinner celebration

Kerri-Anne Cook made history on October 4th as the first female to clinch the Class AA individual state championship on the Speidel Course at Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, West Virginia. The win catapulted the Westside High senior to state history, and her community has continued to express unwavering pride in her remarkable accomplishments.

Following her championship victory, the school and community commemorated her achievements with Kerri- Anne Cook Day. She was also recognized as a Register-Herald Athlete of the Week and an online reader’s poll winner, securing 47.6 percent of the votes.

Oceana officials hosted a celebration at One Voice One Cup, attended by state and county representatives, to honor Cook’s groundbreaking achievement as the first female to win a state golf title in West Virginia.

Mayor Tom Evans praised Cook’s exceptional talent, emphasizing, “We’re just real proud, real proud…” He then presented her with a Certificate of Recognition from U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., to commence the celebration.

On behalf of the West Virginia State Senate, Sen. David “Bugs” Stover, R-Wyoming, presented Cook with a Certificate of Recognition, acknowledging her dedication and achievements in the world of high school golf. Cook’s interest in golf began at the age of 3, and in 2023, she emerged triumphant after finishing in the top 10 in two previous state championships.

After receiving accolades from various dignitaries, Cook’s brother, Caleb, a member of the 2018 state championship team, expressed pride and predicted future success for his grandson, Ayden Padlik, the current Wyoming County Middle School golf champion.

Mike Cook, a member of the Clearfork Valley Golf Course Board of Directors, praised Kerri-Anne’s accomplishment and was proud to call her his daughter. He also recognized her as the third champion from the area, following Benny Ray Bowles and Colin Bowles.

Cook’s coach through high school, Jeremy Warrix, commended her hard work and dedication, stating that success comes to those who put in the effort. Furthermore, he expressed confidence in her future success in any endeavor she pursued.

After graciously thanking her parents, family, and supporters, Cook took the podium and acknowledged their significant role in her success, concluding with, “I couldn’t have done it without them.” She also expressed gratitude for her parents’ role in introducing her to golf, emphasizing, “I wouldn’t be half as good without them.”