Freshman Feature: Laura Cooke

AMES, Iowa – Laura Cooke joins the Cyclones for the spring 2020 semester, moving to Ames from England. Cooke joins Phoebe Turner as the other Cyclone gymnast from England.

Cooke's decision to move to Iowa State was made rather easy once she visited the campus. The team made her feel like a Cyclone from the beginning, and she has been ready for this opportunity since.

"During my visit at Iowa State, I met all of my future teammates and coaches who made me feel so welcomed," Cooke commented. "I felt like I had known them for years. As soon as I had met them all, I knew there was nowhere else I would rather spend my college career than the beautiful campus of Iowa State."

Cooke has represented England internationally twice, while competing at a number of competitions in her home country including the English Championships, British Challenge Cup and the British Championships. Her 11th-place all-around finish, including top-10 marks on vault and floor, at the English Championships qualified her for the British Championships. Internationally, Cooke has collected two all-around victories while competing for England.

"The British Championship is the most incredible experience," Cooke noted. "The large crowds and flashing lights place extra pressure on you as a performer, but I try and channel this into positivity so I perform even better."

Her gymnastics career has been rewarding, helping Cooke become a stronger and more disciplined person today. She is ready to join her Cyclone teammates and make an impact in 2020.

"Again, after my visit to Iowa State, I immediately felt that I was part of the Cyclone family," Cooke said. "I cannot wait to continue my gymnastics career at Iowa State and make amazing friends and memories."

Cooke and Cyclones open the season on Jan. 11 at Arizona. Iowa State returns to action at Hilton Coliseum with a dual against West Virginia on Jan. 17 at 6:30 p.m.

Players Mentioned

Laura Cooke

Phoebe Turner

Sponsors

Iowa State University Athletics