HUGO, Minn. — Grayson Gerding started playing soccer at the age of 5. He currently plays center back for Manitou Futbol Club’s U14 team. He enjoys his defensive position because he helps prevent the other team from scoring, utilizes his quick speed to chase the ball down, and sets up the offense for scoring opportunities.

Position: Center Back
Team: U14 Manitou
Team Record: 45-5 in 2021, MYSA league 2nd place
State Cup: 2nd place

“Grayson is one of the hardest working players, not just on his team but also across the club,” said his coach and Sporting Director of Manitou Futbol Club, Edi Buro. “He always gives his all and constantly wants to improve his game.”

Grayson is appreciative of the coaching he’s received by individuals, such as Edi, Coach Z, and Ralph. He enjoys his teammates because they are like-minded, taking the game seriously and striving to be better.

The team hopes to earn Premier status next season and seeks to travel out of state to play the nation’s top competition.

Grayson attends Gentry Academy, a school that allows for their student-athletes flexibility. He’s allowed time during the school day to workout, whether that be individual soccer training or the strength and conditioning program. Grayson hopes to one day play Division I soccer.

The Gerding family is supportive of Grayson, as well as his brother, Willaim, who also plays for Manitou FC and attends Gentry Academy. The pair always have a ball at their feet. Grayson’s parents are proud of him and encourage him before each game to: “Play hard, play fair, and have fun!” His mom describes him as “a really hard worker—often his own worst critic” and “someone who takes pride in improving his game.”

Outside of the sport, Grayson is a pure adrenaline seeker. He loves to flip off the cliffs at the St. Cloud Quarry, fly off jumps on his BMX bike, speed down mountain trails, land double backflips on his trampoline, and master the terrain park at Trollhaugen. Grayson wishes the Hugo area had a space for kids to enjoy extreme sports.

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