Ali Cook
NCAA Division II – Concord University
West Virginia
From: Gungahlin FC / Canberra ACT
Athletic Scholarship – NCAA Division II
The Journey
Ali Cook’s story at Concord University is one of immediate impact – a Canberra-born defender/midfielder who transferred in and helped transform a program, playing a pivotal role in the Mountain Lions’ remarkable NCAA D2 Final Four run in her very first year. Growing up in Gungahlin, Canberra, Ali was placed by Upper 90 College at Columbus State Community College before earning her transfer to Concord University in Athens, West Virginia – a Mountain East Conference NCAA D2 program. Her arrival coincided with one of the best seasons in Concord women’s soccer history, with the Mountain Lions advancing deep into the NCAA D2 tournament. Over three seasons at Concord (2017–2019), Ali accumulated 38 career appearances with 21 starts, recording 1 goal and 2 assists. Her most productive season came in 2019 when she scored her first career goal at Salem (Sept. 8) and added an assist against King. In her debut season (2017) she made 18 starts with the defense recording eight shutouts. Ali’s ability to anchor a defensive unit that posted multiple shutouts made her a key contributor to one of the most successful periods in Concord women’s soccer history.
Challenges Overcome
Making the transition from JUCO at Columbus State to competing in the Mountain East Conference required significant adaptation. Establishing herself as a regular starter from day one showed the quality that Upper 90 College identified.
Achievements
NCAA D2 Final Four participant (2017 season). 38 career appearances, 21 starts at Concord University. First career goal vs. Salem (Sept. 2019). Defense recorded 8 shutouts in debut 2017 season. Upper 90 College placed athlete.
"Coming to Concord and reaching the NCAA Final Four in my first year was beyond anything I imagined. The Upper 90 pathway opened that door."
— Ali Cook
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