AHS taps Chris Cook as head boys and girls soccer coach

Arlington High School Principal Chris Davis announced today that Chris Cook will take the reins of both the boys and girls soccer programs at AHS! Cook brings more than 25 years of experience developing players at every level, from youth to college recruitment, and is eager to build a unified vision for Tigers Soccer that connects student-athletes, coaches and the larger Arlington soccer community.

“Coach Cook brings a deep understanding of the game and a focus on the fundamentals, and that’s something that can get lost at the high school level,” Davis said. “He’s coming in with years of club experience where he really worked on developing the whole player, but he also has that experience of working with school teams, which is equally important in understanding that dynamic. But what stood out most to me was his investment in the student first, not just the athlete. That’s the kind of leadership I want in our programs.”

Cook most recently served as head coach for both the boys and girls middle school soccer teams at Lakeland Preparatory School. Before that, his coaching journey included director-level roles at several competitive club programs across West Tennessee, including the TN Rush Lobos, TN Rush Soccer Club and West Tennessee Futbol Club. In each role, Cook worked to sharpen players’ skills, strengthen their tactical knowledge and guide them through the college recruitment process to help open doors for future opportunities.

Over the years, he’s coached athletes of all ages and helped many find success at the next level. But what excites him most about Arlington is the opportunity to build a strong foundation that spans the entire program – from high school to youth soccer. 

“I’ve been part of the local soccer scene for a long time and have coached a lot of players who came through Arlington,” Cook said. “I’ve followed the program from the sidelines for years, so I’m excited for the opportunity to lead it, to build on its foundation and move it forward.”

Cook says one of his goals is to strengthen the connections between Arlington’s high school, middle school and club teams to ensure a consistent experience for student-athletes throughout their soccer journey.  

“I think it’s critical to build relationships with the coaches, parents and players already involved in the local club leagues. When you start to focus on them and really invest in them, it makes a difference. What happens in club and middle school leagues matters. When you stay connected, it builds a sense of community, and it feels like everybody’s working toward the same goal.” - Coach Chris Cook

Cook also sees Arlington as a program ready for its next leap.

“I believe Arlington is primed to compete not just locally, but at the state level,” he said. “There’s a lot of potential here, and I’m honored to be trusted with that opportunity. I’m ready to get to work.”

Coach Cook is looking forward to connecting with players and families during AHS girls soccer tryouts, set for July 8–9 from 8:00 to 10:00 AM at the AHS Soccer Field. Boys tryout information will be announced in the coming weeks.

Welcome to Arlington, Coach Cook!