Born with skates on his feet

Tyler Cook was born with skates on his feet and a hockey stick in his hand. Tyler started skating shortly after he learned how to walk. Hockey runs deep in the Cook family. Tyler’s dad, Cam, grew up in Calgary, Alberta and played college hockey at UW Eau Claire. Tyler’s uncle played professional hockey in Europe.

Tyler Cook has been University School of Milwaukee’s (USM) Rock of Gibraltar on the blueline the past several seasons. As a testament to Tyler’s leadership and character, he has been USM’s captain for an unprecedented three seasons.

As an 11th grader last season, Tyler was named a 2nd Team All State Defenseman by the Wisconsin Hockey Coaches Association. Tyler’s exceptional play was noticed, and he was selected to play on Wisconsin’s U18 team in the highly scouted and prestigious National Invitational Tournament (NIT) in April 2025. Tyler also played for Team Wisconsin the past two seasons in the Elite League, considered the best league below juniors.

“Tyler is a hallmark student-athlete. He has one of the highest GPAs in our program. To be named a three-year captain speaks volumes to the unwavering respect his teammates have for him. On the ice, Tyler is the total package for the next level; he possesses the size, offensive instincts, and shutdown capability that every junior coach looks for. Tyler makes coming to the rink a joy. I am incredibly proud of the young man he has become.” Corbin McGuire, USM Head Coach

Let’s hear from Tyler Cook!

When did you start playing hockey? My dad got me on skates at about two or three.

Where did you play youth hockey? I started at Ozaukee, then played for the Jr. Gamblers for two years before playing at USM.

Did anyone in your family play hockey? My dad played at UW Eau Claire. My uncle played at UW Stevens Point and then professional hockey in Europe. My dad is Canadian, so hockey has always been in the family.

What other sports do you play? I play golf. I played baseball through freshman year.

How does playing other sports help you in hockey? I think it’s necessary to take a break. Playing other sports helps with hand eye coordination.

What was it like representing Wisconsin in the NIT? It was unbelievable. It was a great experience to play with some players that I never played with-particularly the guys from northern Wisconsin.

What was it like playing in the Elite League with Team Wisconsin? It was great. I played in the Elite League for two years. Playing against the top Minnesota kids shows you where you are. Our coaching staff was amazing.

Pregame ritual? Panera Bread, then the rink, tape my stick, then to the gym and warm up.

What makes you a successful defenseman? My vision, my puck movement abilities.

What NHL player do you model your game after? Darnell Nurse, Edmonton Oilers.

Who is the most influential person in your life? My dad. He pushes me to be a good person and that comes before anything.

Your plan for hockey after high school? To play juniors.

If you don’t go to juniors, where will you go to school? UW Madison.

What do you want to do for a career? Finance.

What do you enjoy doing in addition to hockey? I love golfing and hanging out with friends and family.

Where’s your dream vacation? Fiji or St. Barth’s. Scuba diving, deep sea fishing.

Favorite food? Steak.

Any specific type of steak? A filet medium rare.

Favorite restaurant for Steak? I love Carnevor in downtown Milwaukee.

Favorite music group or type of music? I like country music. Morgan Wallen.

Chocolate cake, brownie, or apple pie? Chocolate cake.

Pickup truck or sports car? Sports car. Porsche GT3RS.

If you could meet anyone, who would you want to meet? President Trump.

What would ask or want to do with President Trump? I would love to go golfing with President Trump.

Final thoughts? I want to thank my mom and dad and all the coaches I’ve had all the way up; my dad, Ryan Thomas from the Jr. Gamblers, and my coach at USM Corbin McGuire-he is a person I aspire to be like when I get older.

Best wishes to Tyler Cook and the USM Wildcats!

Yours for hockey, Matt Carey