By 605 Sports Staff

PRESHO - Justin Cook grew up in Presho and attended the Lyman School District until his freshman year when his life was tragically cut short as a result of an automobile accident in 2008. 

Justin joined the wrestling program in kindergarten and instantly made an impact on the team and the coaches. After seasons of improvement, he placed numerous times at the state AAU tournament including a state runner-up. He also represented Team South Dakota at the 2007 Middle School duals earning a silver medal with a record of 6-1. 

As a seventh grader, Justin joined the varsity squad wrestling 112 pounds and qualified for the region, even though he weighed about 85 pounds on a normal day. The following year he qualified for the Class B state tournament at the same weight class.

In Justin's freshman year he earned 45 victories and led the team in reversals and near falls. He contributed to Lyman’s 2008 District 6B championship on his way to finishing sixth at the state tournament. 

Justin concluded his varsity career with 88 victories.

Justin will always be remembered as a fierce competitor. Every opponent that ever wrestled him knew the match was never over until the time ran out. 

During the Friday meeting, coaches discuss and nominate wrestlers that best fit Justin’s characteristics of style, attitude, sportsmanship and that Never Give Up Attitude. 

The 2025 Justin Cook Never Give Up award winner is the Yellow Hawk Family - Cateri, Tahnie and Lucas Yellow Hawk from Sully Buttes.