Palisade Junior, Violet Gray, is the Female Athlete of the Week brought to you by Palisade Dino Mart. Gray wrestles in the winter and is a thrower in Track and Field in the spring. Gray was first motivated to start her wrestling career through a close friend. “This will be my fourth year wrestling,” stated Gray. “My friend inspired me to join wrestling because she didn’t want to be the only girl on the team in middle school. I ended up falling in love with the sport.” This love only continues to grow and expands even further. “My favorite thing about wrestling is the team aspect,” stated Gray. “Although wrestling is an individual sport, our team is still my family.” Other than the camaraderie of the sport, Gray appreciates the aspect of wrestling as well. “I enjoy the grind and learning to work through hard times.”
As a varsity wrestler, Gray has worked her way to be where she is today, providing insight and leadership to her teammates. “I am currently on the leadership council of my team. I try to be as positive to my teammates as possible and encourage new and returning wrestlers.” Gray could not be where she is today without the help of her peers. “My biggest inspiration is my wrestling coach, Chad Dare. He is always pushing me to be better and he makes me a better wrestler.” Her coach plays a huge role in her life, helping her attain high achievements and goals. Last year, during her Sophomore year, Gray had an amazing run, meeting high standards. “My greatest accomplishment in wrestling was getting first place at regionals last year.” Gray has a bright future ahead of her in her wrestling career, with accomplishments and goals to meet. The hard work that Gray puts into wrestling is a true testament of her diligence and commitment in everything that she accomplishes. Congratulations Violet Gray on receiving Athlete of the Week!
