Taylor Gray is only a sophomore and already making a name for herself on the soccer field. Gray is an athlete from Maize High School and plays center midfield, usually the six a defensive position or an eight a center position.
For this season, Gray is putting a lot of focus on growth. Growth for herself and growth for the team. “My goal this season is to improve and grow as a player and team overall.” Gray told Vype Magazine she would like to see the goal differential improve this year because she felt like some games last year could have been won by more.
Some games during the season Gray is looking forward to are the games against Maize South and the game against Bishop Carroll. “We already played Carroll for the first time this year and lost 2-0. We put up a hard fight, but I felt we were a better team at times.” Maize will get another opportunity to face Bishop Carroll for a second game this season, and Maize is ready for a chance at a different outcome.
During the offseason, Gray knew she needed to build her strength. “In the offseason, I went straight to my trainer, Rashad Daniels, for strength and speed.” By herself, Gray worked on ball mastery. Another aspect of the game Gray has spent time on is mental toughness. “I also have been working on staying mentally stronger in games and not getting so down on myself.”
Being only a sophomore, Gray is still undecided about her future plans. However, she hopes to continue her soccer career after graduation.
Photo by Robin Thornburg
