Grayson’s camp a success
Photos from Braylon Grayson’s Facebook post.
Braylon Grayson's vision became a reality Monday.
More than 40 young athletes gathered at Warren County High School for the former Pioneer standout's inaugural football camp, spending the day competing, learning and testing themselves in a series of NFL Combine-style events.
The free camp featured laser-timed 40-yard dashes, vertical jumps, shuttle runs and other athletic testing, giving participants a chance to measure their abilities while receiving instruction from local coaches and players.
For Grayson, the turnout was exactly what he had hoped to see as he worked to create an opportunity he wished existed when he was growing up in Warren County.
The day was made possible with the help of numerous volunteers, including coaches and current players from the Warren County football program, who spent hours working with campers and encouraging the next generation of Pioneers.
"I just wanted to take a minute to thank everyone who helped make this camp a success," Grayson said. "We had a great turnout and a great day of football, competition and learning.
"Also, (I want to say) a huge thank you to all of the coaches and players who volunteered their time to help with this camp," said Grayson. "Your energy and willingness to work with the kids made a big difference."
Parents went out of their way as well to get kids to the camp and get the event rolling as football fever continues to spread in Warren County.
"I also want to thank all of the parents for bringing your athletes, supporting them and trusting us to be a part of their development," said Grayson. "We truly appreciate your support and couldn't do events like this without you."
The camp concluded with awards recognizing athletes in several categories.
3rd-5th Grade
Energy Award: Collier Mathis
Best Sportsmanship: Evan Alexander
Highest Vertical: Jaxon Watts
Fastest 40-Yard Dash: Asher Mathis
Most Coachable: Whellen Stewart
6th-8th Grade
Fastest 40-Yard Dash: Case Simpson
Best Sportsmanship: Brody Chisam
Energy Award: Corwinn Barrett
9th-12th Grade
Energy Award: James Watts
Fastest 40-Yard Dash: Dylan Aguilar
Best Sportsmanship: Canaan Curtis
Grayson hopes the camp is only the beginning. After a successful first year, plans are already underway to make the event an annual tradition for young football players in Warren County.
"Congratulations to all of our award winners and thank you to every athlete who came out and gave great effort," said Grayson. "We had a great camp and are already looking forward to next year.”
