Kristien Cook
Kristien is a senior at Durant High School where he plays running back for the Cougars Varsity football team.
How long have you been playing football?
This will be my fifth season playing football, four years in high school and one year in Little League.
Have you always played running back or have you played other positions? If so, what were they?
My first two seasons at Durant I played linebacker as well as running back but since moving up to varsity I have been primarily an RB.
What’s your favorite thing about playing for the Cougars?
My favorite thing is the culture, we have a very special culture here at Durant. Week in and week out players, coaches, fans, and staff have worked endlessly to help our team achieve our goals.
Do you have an all-time favorite football memory?
Although I was in the stands my sophomore season, we blocked a kick in double overtime to beat our rivals, the Newsome Wolves, it was a very surreal experience even as a spectator in the stands.
What’s it like playing for coach Claybo Varnum?
It is not for the weak. Coach Claybo brings the energy every week he pours everything he has into the game and it truly shows he has built a winning culture here at Durant. He not only makes you a good football player he makes you a better person than you were when you first joined the program. I believe this is what sets apart good coaches from great coaches.
How many hours a week would you say you’re playing/preparing for football?
If I’m not sleeping or doing schoolwork it’s straight football. Especially during the season from watching film, getting a lift in, and keeping your body recovered for games, it’s truly something you have to be dedicated to and make many sacrifices for.
If you’re not playing or prepping for football, what are you doing in your spare time?
With the very little spare time I have I’m either sleeping or concentrating on schoolwork.
Who’s your favorite player in the NFL that you try to model your game after?
While he isn’t my favorite NFL player my running back coach told me to watch highlights of Jerome Bettis. A very physical and dominant player who runs through people rather than jukes people.
What are your expectations for Durant’s team this year?
I expect us to compete in games that many people wouldn’t expect us to. I feel this is a team that’s hungry for the playoffs and has an ultimate goal to get back to the playoffs by winning the district.
What are some songs on your pregame playlist?
One song I always listen to pre-game is a song by Ed Sheeran and Luke Combs called “Life Goes On.” It reminds me of my family back in the Philippines and helps me clear my head mentally before games.