Local Youth Knows 'Squat'

I want to congratulate and recognize Cole Cook for his great performance and first place win on his very first powerlifting competition. Cole is a Spooner High School Sophomore and athlete. Cole competed in the raw division (no lifting aids) at the Wisconsin High School Powerlifting Association (WHSPA) Regional state qualifier meet in Whitehall on Feb 17, 2019. Cole took First place in the Varsity 275lb weight class and has now qualified to head to the State meet in Appleton, WI this year.

Cole had some very impressive lifts with a 430lb squat, 245lb bench & 450lb deadlift. His total for those combined three lifts was 1,125lbs!

I first met Cole when Kiko introduced me to him at my fitness center. What I noticed about Cole from the first time I met him is that he has a smile to beat all smiles. Never has there been a time where he didn’t have a smile and a handshake for me--even when I ran into him and the Spooner Wrestling Team at the Turtle Lake McDonalds one late, snowy night--there was that smile and extended hand.

I also want to acknowledge Kiko Murphy, Cole's powerlifting trainer. I first met Kiko over five years ago when he first became a member at The Body Shop Fitness Centers. It didn't take long to see that he has the same passion I do about being in the gym and helping others along the way. Kiko is a very hands-on trainer and gained a lot of experience in competitive powerlifting while he trained with his son, Ryan Murphy. Ryan was very successful in his power lifting events throughout his high school years. Most who know Kiko know he has a passion for weight training and powerlifting, and has some serious socializing skills. With these great skills I can honestly say that Kiko could not be a better motivator and mentor to kids like Cole. Kiko has had the opportunity to reach out to many young men and women in our local communities. I could not be happier than to call him a friend, a positive influence in our fitness center and our communities.  

Matt Dryden