Moore High School sophomore Gray Evans is a member of the varsity soccer team where he plays left wing for the Lions. Evans said the season started off a little slow, but the team is coming around and he personally has benefitted from playing both JV and varsity.
“We’ve had ups and downs as a team. Started slow but got hot toward the end of season and it’s left me feeling like there’s unfinished business to get back to next season. Personally, I’m grateful to have started the season splitting time between JV and varsity but worked hard and coach moved me up to starting with our Varsity team by week four,” said Evans.
We caught up with Evans to ask him a few questions about being a member of the team and what his goals are for the future.
VYPE: Is there a skill you have worked on or improved on this season?
Gray Evans: In the offseason I strained my right hip flexor, so it slowed my normal passing and shooting abilities. Coach encouraged me to do everything on my left until the muscle healed. It wasn’t fun at first, but I feel that strengthened my left foot and abilities on that side quite a bit, allowing me to use some new skills during the season.
VYPE: What are your strengths on the pitch?
GE: When the ball is at my feet, and we have a chance to go forward the first thing I think is playing the early diagonal ball into the box or across the field. This gives us a chance to create opportunities to surprise the defense and score quickly.
VYPE: How important are academics to you?
GE: For me, academics are one of the most important parts of playing sports. If I can’t get good grades, then I can’t play or make it to college. That’s something I’ve learned to prioritize.
VYPE: What would you like to do after you graduate?
GE: I am currently evaluating opportunities to play soccer but I’m also the place kicker for our football team and working to become nationally ranked among the kickers being recruited in my class. I hope to see my athletic abilities lead to scholarship opportunities at a university where I can continue my education and athletics.
VYPE: Who inspires you?
GE: My brother Liam inspires me a lot. He is a kicker at OU and has been coaching me ever since 8th grade.
VYPE: Favorite thing to do after a match?
GE: Me and my friends love to go to Waffle House or IHOP after games. Chocolate chip waffles are best after a win!
VYPE: What’s your go-to meal before a match?
GE: One of the better pregame meals we’ve had was pulled pork smoked by coach Hunt. They also made us homemade Mac-n-cheese before our game and that was probably my favorite.
VYPE: What three players would you have on a “dream team?”
GE: If I was building a dream team, I would choose a forward, midfielder and defender to make sure the field is anchored well in all 3 thirds. So, my three would be Lionel Messi, Kevin De Bruyne, Virgil Van Dijk.
