Hamilton High School English teacher Mark Behnke captivated his Covering Hawkeye Sports classes on Wednesday with a lecture on the rich history of Hamilton Wrestling. He highlighted the legendary Stoel family, including Gregg Stoel, the head coach who achieved over 600 career wins, and Gregg's father, Bob, who also served as head coach and played a key role in establishing the program.
The lecture then shifted focus to Andy Cook, whose dominance on the mat from 1999 to 2002 cemented his legacy in Michigan high school wrestling. Cook’s senior year was particularly extraordinary, as he achieved a state championship, marking a pinnacle in his career. Cook finished with a remarkable 181-13 overall record with the Hawkeyes. Beyond his achievements as a competitor, Cook’s impact resonates today as an assistant coach for the Hawkeyes. His mentoring efforts have helped nurture young wrestlers, instilling in them the discipline and determination that defined his own career.
“December is all about giving back," Behnke told his class. "That is why I chose this topic to lecture on, Andy Cook is all about giving back to the community and doesn't ask for any attention or spotlight."
