Alumni Feature - Tamicka Ruscio (Cook)
Thorndale ISD is proud to highlight Tamicka Ruscio (Cook), whose time as a student-athlete left a lasting mark on our school community. During her years at TISD, Tamicka was actively involved in volleyball, basketball, track & field, softball, and NHS, consistently representing Thorndale with dedication, competitiveness, and pride. Her leadership, work ethic, and commitment to her teammates and coaches helped set the standard for those who followed.
After graduation, Tamicka continued her athletic and academic journey at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, where she was a member of the women’s basketball team. Even after her time on the court, she remained involved through intramural sports and campus life. She worked in the Center for Academic Excellence and contributed to programs such as Cru Camp and Transfer Connection, supporting both incoming freshmen and transfer students as they adjusted to college life.
Tamicka earned her Bachelor of Science in Sport Management with a minor in Business Administration and later completed her Master of Science in Education – Sport Administration. Her passion for athletics and education has come full circle, as she now serves as the girls’ athletic coordinator at Jarrell Middle School and participates in the R.O.C.K. Coaching Mentor Program, continuing to mentor and lead the next generation of student-athletes.
She and her husband have a 7-year-old daughter, and their family recently moved to Jarrell, Texas, where she continues to make a positive impact both on and off the field.
Favorite Memory:
“My senior year basketball season—everything about it meant so much. From the family mentality we had to our amazing coaches, to the heartbreaking loss in the Regional Finals in the last five seconds. If you were there, you know.”
Advice to Students:
“You don’t need to have it all figured out—just don’t stand still.”
Final Thoughts:
“I had some of the best experiences of my life at TISD. I met lifelong friends and coaches who are now colleagues. These are stories I still share with my family today. Enjoy the chaos and the mess, because in the end it will all be worth it.”
Tamicka’s journey is a reflection of the values and spirit of Thorndale ISD. We are incredibly grateful for the impact she made during her time here and are proud to see the continued difference she is making in the lives of others.