Cottrell is 'Top Dog' at State Games of America

Maisie Nelson • August 2, 2022

Incoming freshman Luke Cottrell hasn't stepped into a classroom yet, but he is already representing the College on a national stage.

Cottrell participated in the State Games of America this past weekend in Ames, Iowa. The State Games of America is a biennial Olympic-style event featuring competition between State Games medal winners from across the nation.

During the opening ceremony, the 19-year-old was the flag bearer for the state of Kentucky, where he proudly sported a Union College shirt. But his weekend accolades didn't stop there. He also competed in the sparring event and took home gold, just as he did in the 2019 State Games of America.

"I am a proud martial arts student of Dan Howard in Harlan, KY. He not only has taught me karate but also skills that carry over in being a new college student. I'm excited to attend Union College and want to show the same dedication and perseverance to my college career as I have in my martial arts training," he said.

Cottrell participated in the Kentucky Governor's School for Entrepreneurs and is attending Union on the Governor's Scholar and Legacy scholarships.

"I was excited to receive the Governor's Scholar scholarship at Union because my parents graduated from there."

Cottrell is from Wallins Creek and is the son of Billy Cottrell Jr. BA '04, MA '09, and Amy Saylor Cottrell '08 and plans to major in middle grades education.

City skyline

Cottrell during opening ceremony at the State Games of America

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Birthday Sparks

Cottrell bringing home gold in sparring

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