Thank you, Exeter Soccer. This is a reflection of my time with the boys and girls teams.
I stepped into the booth for the first time 3 years ago with a shaky voice, never having made a public speaking appearance. On a whim, Coach Matt thought I may be interested in doing public address for the boys team.
Three years later, I exit the booth with no regrets. Two years of PA and this past year of broadcasting boys and girls games have shaped me into the figure I am today, both in media and personally. The teams have been there every step of the way to make me feel confident about my growth as a fellow classmate of these incredible seniors, even if I’m not growing on the field to make the same impact.
Slide to see my sophomore vs. junior years as PA announcer
I’ve grown a newfound love for a sport that I never particularly cared for ahead of my sophomore year; I probably couldn’t have told you what a corner kick was at first. As I depart from this stage to achieve greater things in college and beyond, these memories will last a lifetime.
To the boys team: an unparalleled opportunity. You were my gateway into unlocking my voice and allowing me to branch off beyond print journalism. When you came to me for public address I couldn’t have been more thrilled, and when I came to you this year to transition to play-by-play, there was nothing but support. From the game-winners, to Senior Night, to the banquets, you’ve made me feel like a part of the team.
To the girls: though it’s been just a season, to turn this program into the winningest team in school history and all of Berks County has been absolutely astounding. To watch a team full of so many supportive, fun, and talented players hoist the trophy was one of the defining moments of my time behind a microphone.
I wish the best to my fellow seniors moving forward. Whether or not you continue with the sport, Exeter has been lucky to watch you all shine.
This journey would not be possible without my parents. From driving me early on, to helping logistically with the stream, to some last-minute life-savers, I couldn’t have done it without you both, and I couldn’t be more thankful.
And another special shoutout to Andrew Schwenk, who stepped into the booth for the first-time ever to join me from game one through the county championships. He did a remarkable job and there’s nobody I’d rather joke about sandwiches over the air with. Thank you also to these following members who stepped up to help with the Student Sportscasts this year: Vinnie D’Angelo, Ben Ruppert, and Chase Noel.
Schoolside, AD Tom Legath, coaches Matt and Milt, and ALL of the staff at Exeter have been so instrumental in letting this high school kid achieve his dreams.
Most of these pictures were taken by the incredible Mady Hirneisen. She’s stood by me and supported this journey, soccer and all other sports, every step of the way. Thank you to the sweetest supporter and my favorite photographer out there.
It’s a bittersweet goodbye, but only the start of where I’ll be headed in the industry. THANK YOU for all of your support during this ride.
Whether it’s “have a good night and drive home safe”, or “we’ll see you next time on the Student Sportscast”, this is Adam Cooke signing off from Exeter Soccer.
This is an expanded version of a social media post on 10/25/2025. You can find the original linked here.
Adam Cooke Journalism 