Cooper Dossey, a Vandegrift HS junior who hopes to play professional golf one day, was selected to represent the U.S. at the Duke of York tournament in September. Friday he left for the Polo Invitational in Florida.

By CASSIE MCKEE, Four Points News

Vandegrift High School junior Cooper Dossey had the opportunity to travel to Aberdeen, Scotland, in September to represent the United States in the Duke of York Young Champions Trophy golf tournament.

Dossey was selected to represent the U.S. after winning the American Junior Golf Association tournament in April. He and another female golfer from Ohio were selected to play in the Duke of York tournament, and competed among national champions from approximately 30 countries. Dossey said he was surprised to learn he had been selected to compete in the international tournament.

“Honestly, I was kind of shocked,” he said. “I struggled last summer so it’s been a huge blessing to have the opportunity. I wasn’t expecting it.”

Dossey rose in the Polo Golf Rankings to the No. 17 spot after a 2014 campaign which included two top 10s and his first career AJGA title at the Goodman Networks Junior at Traditions. He helped the West retain the Cup at the 25th anniversary Wyndham Cup and was recognized as one of golf’s rising stars on the Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy Junior All-Star Team.

Cooper Dossey, a Vandegrift HS junior who has verbally committed to play at Texas A&M, represented the U.S. recently at an international golf tournament in Scotland. Most of that time was spent playing golf, but Dossey (right) did have the opportunity to meet the Prince Andrew, Duke of York (left).

He traveled to Scotland for seven days in mid-September and while most of that time was spent playing golf, he did have the opportunity to meet the Duke of York.

“He was pretty cool,” Dossey said. “He was a little cocky but I guess he has the right to be. He was very nice, very open; he talked a lot.”

Dossey ended up placing 21st in a field of 55 players.

Cooper at Junior Players TPC Sawg.

“I struggled on the last couple holes,” he said. “I wish I could’ve done better. If I could’ve come in a little lower on those holes it would’ve been better.”

Dossey said the tournament was a very good experience and his biggest takeaway was learning how to play on a links course. A links is the oldest style of golf course, first developed in Scotland. He said he also was encouraged to be able to compete among some of the best young players in the world.

Cooper golfing at age 5.

With grandparents who were also avid golfers, Dossey said he was practically born into the sport. He has two younger brothers who are also golfers. He is the son of Paul and Trudi Dossey.

“I was born with a classic club in my hand,” he said. “I’ve been playing golf my whole life. I have a huge passion for it. I’m a very competitive guy so it’s a good sport for me.”

This fall, Dossey competed in the Ping Invitational in Oklahoma in October and then the Polo Invitational in Florida this month. He is excited for the VHS season and said he expects the state championship team to do well again this year.

“We’re very good this year,” he said. “I’d say we’re just as good as last year. We lost two seniors but picked up a great freshman player. We’re looking good.”

Dossey is verbally committed to play golf at Texas A&M University and he hopes to one day play professionally.

“I’m very blessed to play this game and all the glory goes to God,” he said.

Cooper with Luke and Sam.