Debbie CookIt’s safe to say that there is no one quite like Debbie Cook in Meeker. Her commitment to coaching volleyball and to community wellness stand alone among all others.
Cook’s teams posted a 393-125 mark in volleyball during her 22 years at the helm, winning nine conference titles and going to the state tournament nine times. Her teams 72% winning percentage ranks highly in the CHSAA record books.
She was selected as the CCGS All-State Coach three times, the CHSCA All-State Coach three times and was the North West League Coach of the Year on eight occasions; and, 10 of her athletes earned all-state honors.
Cook also coached track for 16 years and girls’ basketball for two years.
A graduate of Glenwood Springs and UNC, Cook began her teaching career in Meeker in 1974 and taught elementary physical education for 30 years.
She is well-known for her work in health and wellness for the northwestern Colorado community, adding a community aspect to her teaching position.
Cook helped organize and direct many community outreach health and education programs throughout her career.
Her Jump Rope for Heart raised over $100,000 for the community. She ran the Christmas Food Drive at the elementary school, started the Shape Up Colorado program for Meeker, led the Support Our Troops fundraiser, organized and ran the 9News Health Fair, as well as organized the town’s Red Ribbon Week. She was in charge of the Bike Rodeo for many years, too.
Those who nominated her speak only of a person who gave them back more than she ever took. This came from former athletes, coaches she had mentored along the way and community members whose family benefitted from her community outreach.
She continues to teach and volunteer in Glenwood Springs several days a week, but maintains her residence in Meeker.
