Chad Cooksey was recently recognized by the South Carolina

Association for Physical Education and Sports (SCAPES) as the recipient of the 2016 SCAPES Teacher of the Year Award, high school physical education level.

Nominated by his peers, Cooksey received this prestigious award based on his dedication to students, professional membership and involvement in local, state, and national physical education organizations, and also for serving as a positive role model to his students.

Landrum High School’s athletic director, Mike Gentry, had the following to say about Coach Cooksey: “Chad Cooksey has not only changed the culture of the athletic department, but changed the culture of Landrum High School. Our coaches have seen tremendous strides from a strength standpoint, but also a huge gain in confidence in our kid’s attitudes toward competing. Chad challenges these athletes to sacrifice for the team which, in turn, pays big dividends for the individual. Chad affects everyone around him in a positive way. He has a distinct way of blending enthusiasm with hard work that makes athletes and coaches love to be around him.”

Cooksey is a graduate of Limestone College and earned his masters of teaching degree from Converse College. In addition to being a high school social studies teacher, he has coached football, wrestling, track, and is currently the head strength and conditioning coach at Landrum High School, as well as the club director for Team Landrum Barbell.

Cooksey is entering his ninth year in high school education and recently completed his +30 in kinesiology. Coach Cooksey is married to Elizabeth Cooksey and has two children, Hannah and Hunter.

The South Carolina Association for Physical Education and Sport strives to implement and advocate the development of physical education, physical activity and physical fitness through high quality, research-based programs facilitated by competent, educated professionals.

– article submitted by Sandra Walker