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Hoone, a 15 year old freshman at
The moment was a long time coming for a young man competing in the Junior Division for the ninth and final time. Hoone moves up to the Intermediate Division next year.
“I was overwhelmed and excited. It was very surreal. Finally, all the hard work paid off and everything fell into place for me.”
The title highlights an already stellar career for Hoone in the turkey calling game. He has amassed a number of titles, including Ohio State Champion seven times, Michigan State Championship three times, twice the Realtree Grand America champion and won the Tar Heel Open once.
His unique ability and success landed him on the pro staffs for Woodhaven Calls and Old Tom Camouflage. Continued success will place him in high demand as a front man for future endorsements.
Cory has also made appearances on national television twice. He was a guest on the Jay Leno show when he was seven years old. He later appeared on the Ellen Degeneres show at age twelve. Both times he had to perform his calls before a national audience.
All in all it has been quite a ride for Hoone since he started competitive turkey calling at age seven.
“It is fun to go all over the country calling in competitions and hunting. I have got to meet so many nice people and I am very thankful to be part of it. It has been awesome.”
The NWTF Grand National title was the one thing that was missing from Cory’s resume. It is an achievement he wanted badly and one he had worked very hard to obtain.
“Now that I have won it, I don’t feel like I am second best to anyone anymore. I get to be recognized with the best callers in the world and I am very proud of that.”
Besides his turkey calling prowess, Cory is also an accomplished baseball player. The World Champion begins his freshman season of high school baseball this spring. He’s no slouch in the classroom either, an honor roll student at
Hoone is already preparing for competition next year. He’ll move up to the Intermediate Division with sights set on a new level and a new challenge.
“It will be harder next year. The competition will be tougher but I will just have to prepare more and get better. I like challenges and winning at the Intermediate level will be a big challenge.”
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