Senior football captain Norman Cook has been suiting up for the field since he was seven years old. 

Cook, returning as a defensive back and wide receiver, has some big goals for the Hawks this year. The Hawks were able to beat one of the toughest teams in the NVL, the Naugatuck Greyhounds. The team also fell just one game short of a chance at a state championship. 

“My most memorable memory was beating Naugatuck last year,” said Cook. “That game showed us what we’re capable of when we play together. This year, we want to go even further.” And further, they intend to go; with Cook helping to lead the charge, the Hawks have set their sights set high. 

“We want to win the NVL, and ultimately, win the state championship,” said Cook. “For myself, I want to go All-NVL and All-State.”

But the road ahead isn’t without challenges. Cook knows the Hawks will have to face tough opponents like Ansonia and Naugatuck again this year, teams with strong reputations and deep talent pools. Still, the pressure doesn’t rattle him.

“When it gets intense, I just take a deep breath, tell myself I can do it, and believe,” advises Cook. “I think pressure is a privilege.”

Having played football for most of his life, Cook brings both experience and passion to the team. He sets the tone in the locker room, on the sidelines, and in every drill at practice.

“Everything we do is for that end goal,” said Cook. “Winning states–that’s what we’re working for every day.”