Sun Sep 15 11:00:55 UTC 2024: ## Orange Lutheran Sophomore Makena Cook Leads Flag Football Team to Undefeated Season
**Costa Mesa, CA** – Makena Cook, a sophomore at Orange Lutheran High School, is proving to be a force on the flag football field. Leading the Lancers to a 14-0 start and the No. 1 ranking in the country, Cook has earned the title of “most accurate and distant thrower” in the Southland.
While soccer is Cook’s primary sport, her natural talent and experience playing in youth leagues have translated seamlessly to the gridiron. With 298 completions out of 410 attempts, 3,377 passing yards, and 58 touchdowns, Cook has become a formidable quarterback.
Her precision throwing has made Orange Lutheran receiver Keylee Baker, Cook’s favorite target, a key contributor. Together, the two have been unstoppable, fueled by a strong friendship dating back to middle school.
Cook’s dedication to the sport extends beyond the field. She follows a rigorous training schedule that includes morning weightlifting and evening soccer practice. Despite her busy schedule, Cook remains focused on her goals, which include leading the Lancers to the inaugural CIF Southern Section championship and playing college soccer.
Her athletic abilities run in the family. Cook’s father, Mikhail, played football in high school and college, her mother, Stefanie, played softball, and her aunt, Lisa Longaker, is a UCLA softball Hall of Famer.
Orange Lutheran coach Kristen Sherman praises Cook’s leadership and talent, comparing her skills to that of a boys’ quarterback. Sherman notes that Cook’s stats would be even more impressive if not for the fact that she often sits out large portions of games due to the Lancers’ dominance.
With a “redemption tour” in mind, the Lancers aim to overcome last year’s losses and secure the league title. Cook and her team are ready for the challenge, with their sights set on a successful season.
First Piper 