Cook Memorial Succeeds On All Fronts
Ron Bailey, Publisher
Ted Cook's life celebrated in his image.
October 25, 2009 - The 2nd Annual Ted Cook Memorial Golf Tournament went off without a hitch last week, as the man, father of Quinn and Kelsey, husband to Janet, and his penchant for giving were remembered, and in certain measure continued. The 100+ golfers that participated did so to not only celebrate Cook, but assist DeMatha High School, this year's proceeds recipient.
Over twenty-five sponsors supported the Cook Memorial, held at Lake Presidential Golf Course (Upper Marlboro, MD), helping to produce a successful event, and were greatly appreciated by the Cook family. That's not to say the Cook's didn't understandably experience mixed emotions; Ted passed away only one and a half years ago.
Quinn Cook with an award provided by USA Basketball and presnted by his DeMatha teammates.
"Yes, I do" said tourney organizer Janet of feeling happy yet sad, as the Cook Memorial obviously forces the Cooks to once again publicly deal with the loss. Her son Quinn, a standout basketball player (Class of 2011) at DeMatha agreed, noting though happy they did, it was particularly challenging to "see his old friends come back".
Curtis Malone, who heads Quinn's AAU team (DC Assault) and during the luncheon got choked up, said "I'm here to support my man Ted", before later stating "He was a big time inspiration. He was a positive human being who always had everybody's back...Ted was one of the best people I've ever met in my life". The event included the tourney, a luncheon, and VIP reception.
Held immediately after the tournament concluded, food and awards were provided during the luncheon: Eric Atkins received the Young Man of Distinction honor, while Malone garnered the Humanitarian Award. Local DC sportscaster Glenn Harris took home Lifetime Achievement hardware, and Quinn received a plaque recognizing his USA Basketball participation, presented by DeMatha's hoops team.
"Eric lost his father just like me, and since then has persevered and excelled" said Quinn of Atkins, while addressing the luncheon crowd.
Curtis Malone receives an award from DeMath's Mike Jones.
Eric, shy in public, hails from Columbia, MD and also plays for DC Assault, is headed to play for Notre Dame in 2010, a point he noted during his acceptance comments (also in attendance was DeMatha's Jerian Grant, who will also be a 'Domer' next year, lining up with Atkins in the backcourt).
Regarding Malone and DC Assault, DeMatha's head coach, Mike Jones said, "One program has centered itself to the top...(DC Assault) has a about a dozen players currently playing in the NBA". Jones later went on to laud the work Malone does in the community and on the hardwood, saying" I have respect for what they do".
Expect this celebration of Ted Cook's life to continue next year. "We already have a date" shared Janet Cook. "It's August 20th". Where would that be? "Right here" she said, referring to Lake Presidential, a site chose for its hospitality and scenery, of which greatly impressed her.
The true story here is how Ted Cook impressed and impacted so many people. His ethos carries on.