At 18 years old, Cooper Forth from Webb City, Missouri, embodies perseverance, camaraderie, and the unpredictable nature of golf. This fall, he’s starting a new chapter at Pittsburg State University, where he’ll join the golf team and pursue a degree in History Education.
Cooper Forth holds his Junior Match Play Semifinalist trophy at Mules National Golf Club on June 13, 2024.
Growing up in Webb City, Cooper found his love for golf early on. He spent a significant amount of time at his home course, Crestwood Country Club in Pittsburg, Kansas, sharpening his skills and developing his passion for the game. His career at Webb City High School was all about dedication and growth, preparing him for bigger things to come.
One of the standout moments in Cooper’s journey happened during the Missouri Golf Association’s 2024 Junior Match Play Championship at Mules National Golf Club, an event that gave him some of his best golf-related memories.
“This was a fun week. We didn’t think I was going to make it to match play. It was a last-minute deal,” Cooper recalled.
On the first day of competition, Cooper shot an 11-over, 83, tying for 58th place and putting his chances of advancing to match play at serious risk.
“Day one, I really didn’t know the course. We had something going on, so I didn’t get to play a practice round. I hit some balls that I thought were good, but didn’t actually turn out to be good,” Cooper explained.
Determined to change his fate, Cooper tackled the second day with newfound focus.
“Day two, I knew the course a little better, and I knew I had to go for everything if I wanted to make the top 16. I just wanted to go low, and somehow I did.”
Cooper Forth chips his ball during the semifinal round of the 2024 Junior Match Play Championship on June 13, 2024.
Cooper shot a bogey-free round of 6-under, 66, the lowest score of the tournament, securing his spot in the match play by tying for 13th place. But waiting to see if his hard work had paid off was nerve-wracking for Cooper.
“We sat down right outside on the patio after my round for the rest of the day. We watched all the groups come in on 18,” Cooper said. “I was nervously drinking water, just hoping to make the cut. Once I finally made it, it was like, ‘Okay, we’ve got one more day!’”
Cooper’s journey through the match play rounds was filled with memorable moments, including a crucial 12-foot par putt during the round of 16.
“I called in my buddy for a read. He gave me a run, I trusted it, and we center-cupped it to win the match,” Cooper said.
His determination and skill carried him all the way to the semifinals, marking a significant achievement in his young golfing career. His performance delighted his grandfather, Roger Forth, known as “Pops.” Roger was at Mules National watching Cooper all week.
Cooper Forth and his caddy, Braden McKee, pose with the Junior Match Play Semifinalist trophy on June 13, 2024.
“When he’s on, he’s on. And when he’s off, he’s off. He was making good, long drives and making good putts,” Roger said.
Pops also shared a funny story about their breakfast routine.
“His tee time was too early, and we couldn’t get breakfast at the hotel, so we had to go to McDonald’s. The first three days weren’t busy, and we got through there super quick. This last round it took us five minutes to even order our food. I think that threw him off just a little,” Roger said, jokingly.
A crucial part of Cooper’s success was the support of his friend and caddy, Braden McKee. The two have been friends since playing baseball together at six years old and continued their bond through high school golf.
Cooper Forth and Braden McKee pose for a picture during their high school golf season.
Braden remembers the moment Cooper asked him to caddy: “When Cooper called me to caddy for him, it was 7:30 the night before. I was sitting at dinner with my parents, and the course is two and a half hours away. He calls me and he goes, ‘Hey, it’s a long shot but any chance you can come caddy for me?’ and I was like, ‘Yeah, why not?’”
“Technically, I’ve never had a golf lesson, they’re just Cooper lessons. I mean, we’re out on the range as much as we can,” Braden shared.
Seeing Cooper make the cut after a rough start was especially meaningful for Braden.
“After I heard that he shot 80-something the first day, and he came back and texted me that he made the cut, it was pretty cool to experience,” Braden said. “To come out and see how good everyone else is playing, and he’s out here competing with all these kids, it’s enjoyable to watch.”
Cooper Forth and Braden McKee prepare for Cooper’s shot during the Junior Match Play Semifinal round on June 13, 2024.
As Cooper heads to Pittsburg State University, his goals are set high but remain grounded in reality. While he dreams of becoming a professional golfer, he also sees a future in coaching high school golf.
“I love helping. Even when I was in high school, I loved giving the junior varsity players tips, and I think it’s so fun to see them happy after hitting a couple of good shots,” Cooper said.
His passion for teaching and mentoring is matched by his dedication to the game. Outside of golf, Cooper enjoys various sports and activities, from basketball to pickleball, reflecting his well-rounded and active lifestyle.
Through his journey, Cooper has learned valuable lessons, with one standing out.
“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is sometimes it’s better to be lucky than to be good. Sometimes, all you need is a little luck in the game, and all you need is a little luck in life too.”
Cooper Forth reads the wind at the 2024 Junior Match Play Championship on June 13, 2024.
Cooper’s journey is marked by resilience, friendship, and steadfast family support. Whether he fulfills his dream of playing at Augusta National or inspires the next generation as a coach, Cooper’s golf journey is just starting.
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