Photo Credits: Flex Whalen
By Matt Browning
Andale diver Gage Cooper is back as a defending state champion, as well as a two-time league champion.
More than any finish Cooper places this season, he is most curious to see how much better he is. Whether that means first place trophies or simple fundamental improvement, Cooper knows he has put in the work.
“I am very excited to see how this year works out and how much I can grow as an athlete from last year,” Cooper said.
Considering being a state champion, it’s difficult to imagine Cooper getting better. But he recognized there are a couple of areas where he can improve.
Some of the things I really want to improve this year is my approach and its consistency,” Cooper said. “During the off season I worked on posture and my timing with my steps on the board.”
While Cooper wants to repeat as a state champion, he actually has even loftier goals for 2026.
“Some goals coach and I have is to become an All-American and try to break the state record,” Cooper said.
