Mark Dantonio's New QB Connor Cook is Working Hard On and Off the Field and Phone

 Cleveland, Ohio  When Michigan State and Mark Dantonio were told by Walsh Jesuit QB Connor Cook that he would be a Spartan, they once again added a big

 

Dantonio got a winner in Cook with a work ethic that should spell more success for the program. Photo courtesy of Starr Portice

Cleveland, Ohio

 

When Michigan State and Mark Dantonio were told by Walsh Jesuit QB Connor Cook that he would be a Spartan, they once again added a big QB with a bigger upside. I spent time with the new Spartan at his home in Hinckley, Ohio. Though this youngster may be 13 months away from stepping on campus as a freshman, he‘s already working his tail off (to get ready) for that first day.

 

“I spend three days a week working out at Walsh…I do a Russian Kettle bell workout twice a week, and I use a personal trainer and throw two days a week. I also do some one-on-one work,” Cook said. “I am working hard to be ready.“ Perhaps he can slow down a little bit as his arrival is months away, but one thing you learn when you talk to people and get to know Cook, is that he loves football, but has perspective.

 

“My sister Jackie is a freshman basketball player at Old Dominion. She is my best friend. We have always been close. I don’t ever recall us ever arguing. We always hang out, and I think I am really fortunate to be have that special person I am close to being a family member,” Cook described.

 

A lot of young men, especially at the all critical QB position, tend to grow egos as long as their offer list from BCS schools. Not Cook. “I walked in the bathroom last week and one of my fellow students asked me about Michigan State. One of my teammates didn’t even know. It hasn’t changed me. I am proud to be a Spartan, but I am just me. I hope people respect me for that.” They do. Speaking to people at his schools, one school employee said, “That isn’t Connor…he doesn’t have to feed his ego.”

 

Cook’s journey to Michigan State has many memories ahead, but he already has some special ones that he shared with me. “Last year I was up at the Michigan game. The hitting was amazing. They were flying around and cracking skulls. Big hits. What a day with the weather. Sun and rain and the atmosphere was incredible. I am anxious to suit up and play. Watching those players hoisting up the Paul Bunyan trophy was great. I can’t wait to do that.”

 

Cook has spent a lot of time since giving his pledge to Dantonio trying to get others to join him. “A QB is supposed to be a leader. Guys have to trust you to lead. I think I have to get out there and make the Spartan 2011 class the best in the Big Ten.”

 

In the process of being a recruiter for the Spartans, Cook, like coaches across the country can get frustrated. “I don’t understand when someone loves their school and doesn’t commit. I didn’t need to take all my official visits. I wanted to be a Spartan and accepted the offer as soon as I knew it. I tell these guys not to wait to just make their egos feel good. Commit now and help me make this the best class. I am ready for guys to say yes so we can go get someone else.”

 

According to Cook Dantonio agrees with him. Cook related that he talked with Coach Dantonio recently and he says his new head coach told him, “Just like our 2009 and 2010 classes, 2011 will follow up and be strong. Other athletes will want to follow those who commit early, and don’t wait.”

 

Cook is a fine young man. He is months from being a BCS Big Ten QB, but comfortably at home with his sister and mother, his big smile reminds you of his youth. He may wish that he was on campus today, but this bright youngster from a great family will keep his feet on the ground. Even if his sister has to sit on him to make it happen.

 

With an incredible talent, a super family, and all the promise of a great future, this young man is yet another great kid, as Mark Dantonio adds character and talent to his squad. I bet he didn’t know that he was also getting an extra recruiter.