by Tim Hoffstaetter
Everyone on campus who knows Cooper knows he is a wonderful man who is extremely kind and caring, also knows he is extremely fast! I wanted to highlight his brilliance as a person as much as I can while he is still here as he is one of the best teammates anyone could ask for. The school will definitely be losing a great student, friend, teammate, and athlete when he leaves so with that said I give Cooper Neeble the floor.
How did it feel to be an ODAC champion in your sophomore year and first outdoor track season in 2021?
“It was an experience I will never forget. I had been training hard up to this race, and felt confident going into it. I knew I was ready to win, but had to perform well with no mistakes. My teammates were cheering their heads off, and even though my parents and brother weren’t there due to COVID regulations, I knew they were going crazy watching the livestream. Kicking down the final straightaway and crossing the line in first was an unworldly feeling – I knew my training had finally paid off.”
How does it feel to be a two-time school record holder?
“Honestly, it feels pretty amazing. My collegiate career has had its share of highs and lows, but I have always wanted to be consistent with my training, believe in the process, and trust in my own abilities. The sport has often been very humbling, but also very rewarding as well. I am very happy and blessed to have experienced these two record-breaking performances alongside and for my teammates, coaches, family, friends, and everyone else who has supported me and continues to do so throughout my career.”
What are your goals for the rest of the season?
“My main goal for the upcoming season is to reclaim my 3000m steeplechase title at ODACs. I also want to break the school record in this event, which currently sits at 9:09.71. Additionally, I plan to break the school records in the 1500m and 5000m by going under 3:58.51 and 14:47.26, respectively.”
What’s next for you both academically and athletically?
“Up next for me academically will be to go to graduate school for a Masters of Science in Kinesiology with a concentration in Exercise Physiology at either James Madison University or the University of North Carolina Greensboro. I plan to continue to run competitively wherever I decide to attend grad school, either on the collegiate level or individually.”
Cooper closed his remarks with a grateful attitude, sharing, “Thank you all so much for your love and support I have received! I am very grateful to have called Roanoke College my home for both school and track! Keep on believing in yourselves! You all carry on the legacy we hold, so keep representing us well! Always proud of you all and love you guys! GO MAROONS!!!”
