For the second straight season, the returning All-American will compete for a national title on the floor exercise.

"It feels exhilarating and rewarding to know I was able to reach my goals, especially after overcoming an ankle sprain and having only one month to retrain my skills," said Cook.

Cook qualified as an Individual Event Specialist, which includes the top 14 specialists who are not on a qualifying team and did not qualify as all-around competitors.

"Qualifying for Nationals again with an even higher score shows the level of dedication Diamond brings every day," said Wilberforce gymnastics head coach Morgan Byrd. "Her hard work, determination, and commitment to our program continue to make her a trailblazer for Wilberforce gymnastics."

The Women's Collegiate Gymnastics National Invitational Championships will be held March 27–29 in West Chester, Pennsylvania.

Even after becoming Wilberforce's first gymnastics All-American last season, Cook has continued to raise the standard in her second year with the Bulldogs. She became the first Wilberforce gymnast to win an individual event, capturing the floor title on the opening day of the University of Alaska Anchorage meet. Later in the season, she set a career and program record with a 9.825 to win the floor exercise again—this time in front of the home crowd at Wilberforce.

Not content to stop there, Cook closed the season with another 9.825 on the floor exercise, carrying strong momentum into the national championships. She earned All-American honors at last year's national meet with a score of 9.75.

Having competed at the national level last season will benefit Cook not only in her performance, but also in navigating the environment.

"Something I learned from last season that will help me this year is knowing the girls around me support me and cheer me on as if I'm their own teammate," said Cook. "Coming in alone can be a little nerve-wracking, especially if it's your first time. Now that I'm going again, I know I'm not by myself."