Help Me Chase My Dream

Hey! My name’s Grayson, and I’ve been in love with soccer since 2015. It’s not just a sport to me — it’s my passion, my drive, and what keeps me going every single day.

This year, I earned a spot on one of the top squads at TKO Premier SC, one of the most competitive clubs in the Midwest. We’re taking on some of the best teams in the region through tournaments and league play — and the level of commitment is intense. Being part of TKO has pushed me to grow not just as an athlete, but also as a leader, and I’m proud to represent my club on and off the field.

I also play for my high school team, the Kalamazoo Central Maroon Giants, and I’ve been grinding all summer to prepare for a big upcoming season.

My Dream

I’m working toward playing Division 1 college soccer — and one day, going pro. That’s been my goal for years, and I’m not stopping until I get there. I come from a line of Western Michigan University grads — four generations — and I’m planning to be the fifth. But I don’t just want to attend WMU. I want to wear their jersey, represent their D1 program, and earn a degree in physical therapy so I can help other athletes just like me.

Why I Need Your Help

Chasing this dream comes with a lot of expenses—from training and gear to tournaments, travel, and scouting camps. The total cost is estimated to be around $10,000 for the year, and while my parents are helping as much as they can, I don’t want to miss out on key opportunities because of financial limitations. I’m working hard this summer to contribute, and so far I’ve saved $650, with a goal of reaching at least $1,500 before school starts.

That’s why I’m asking for your support. Every donation — big or small — brings me closer to my goals. You’re not just helping me play the sport I love. You’re giving me a real shot at creating a future I’ve been working toward for nearly a decade. And I'm only 16!

Paying It Forward

My ultimate goal is to give back — to help the next generation of athletes by sharing my story, supporting their journeys, and showing that anything is possible with heart and hustle.

Thank you for reading, and thank you for being part of my journey. Your support means more than I can put into words.

— Grayson

P.S. While soccer is a huge part of my life, I’m equally committed to my education. I finished my sophomore year with a 3.8 GPA and have been challenging myself with AP courses in Math, English, and Spanish. I'm looking forward to keeping that momentum going into my junior year.