Featured Senior: Mason Cook

What was your most memorable moment throughout your career at Willamette?

Playing in, and winning, the conference tournament (2018).

Describe your feelings when you found out the season was canceled

I was preparing to "hang them up" in May, but having it come sooner made me realize how unprepared I was and how much I'll miss the game.

How have you been handling life in quarantine? Are you home or on campus? What's it like learning online and not having practice?

I miss being outside and having the routine of going to class and then going to practice. I'm home (Salem) wishing to have practice and play again. Online class is miserable and not having practice has left me with time I don't know how to fill.

What has your experience as a Bearcat taught you?

How special the opportunity to be a Bearcat is ... it has taken the help and support of dozens to be able to have this opportunity.

If you could leave one piece of advice for future Bearcats, what would it be?

It's cliche, but the seasons really do go by fast, don't take anything for granted because it'll be gone before you know it.

What are your future plans following graduation?

I will attend one more year at Willamette at the Atkinson Graduate School of Management, and contemplate playing another season.

From their teammates

What was your most memorable moment of Mason?

Ben Kowalski: Just talking about the mental side of baseball for hours in the dugout

Ryan Whithorn: He came into the game in some big spots and he always got the job done. It was easy to call upon him.

Justin Miller: The positivity he had every day for practice and games

How has Mason impacted you in your sport or in life?

Ben Kowalski: He helped me find the right mentality to go out and compete like I can and should.

Ryan Whithorn: Cook is a solid guy. He showed me every day that it's important to treat people like family.

Justin Miller: Maturity and how to take care of yourself

What makes Mason special?

Ryan Whithorn: He is dependable.

Justin Miller: His great attitude and willingness to help others

Is there anything Mason brought to the program that will have a lasting impact?

Ryan Whithorn: We'll miss having the old man out there with us. He is like the cool uncle we all have or wish we had.