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Nimitz Girls Track & Field Coach Jarryd Gray
THE INFLUENCER: Gray's experience brings valuable insight to Nimitz Track
“I’m trying to instill a sense of secondary opportunity,” Gray said. “The idea is that we can shine in high school, but my goal is to ask, ‘What can you do after that?’ These four years will go by quicker than you might expect, and the real world will hit you quickly. So, I’m trying to help them understand that and provide them with the opportunity to run in college, just like I did.”
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
Gray’s journey started at Southwest High School in Fort Worth, Texas, before earning a scholarship to Prairie View A&M University.
His experiences as a collegiate athlete now shape the way he coaches at Nimitz, where he emphasizes not just physical preparation, but also mental resilience.
“Giving them confidence has been a huge part of what I want them to gain,” he said. “They know they’re good, but some of them lack the confidence to go out there and show that each week. So, I try to give them a little bit of my story, but I’m not one of those coaches who tries to live their legacy through their athletes. It’s all about them now and how they can stay consistent with their craft on a daily basis.”
Gray’s path to coaching wasn’t a direct one.
After completing his track career, he initially worked in the oil fields—a common industry in Houston—but quickly realized his true passion lay elsewhere.
“After my track career, I went into the oil fields since we’re in Houston and that’s what they’re partially known for,” Gray said. “But I didn’t feel like that was my passion. So, I got into teaching and coaching, even though I kind of ran from it, because my dad was a teacher for over 30 years. Initially, I didn’t think I would be the one to follow in his footsteps, but I soon realized that this was my passion. I love track, and I’m going to make sure that these kids get 1,000% every day.”
2024-25 Nimitz Girls Track & FieldJamey Wright (VYPE)
That dedication is evident in the way he pushes his athletes, not just to perform at a high level but to believe in themselves and see track & field as a pathway to future success.
Under his leadership, the Nimitz girls’ program continues to grow, with student-athletes gaining not only competitive experience but also the confidence to take their talents beyond high school.
For Gray, the victories on the track are important, but the real reward is seeing his athletes embrace their potential—both in competition and in life.
MacArthur's Daniel Reyna
STUDENT OF THE GAME: MacArthur's Reyna ready to take his talents to the next stage
His journey began early, laying the foundation for the competitor he is today.
“I started playing baseball when I was three years old, and I’ve always had a love for the game,” Reyna said. “I grew up playing against older kids, so I got used to facing adversity. But at the end of the day, it’s a childhood game we’re all lucky to play—and there’s nothing better than leaving school early to play baseball.”
That passion has fueled his growth throughout high school. From early struggles at the plate to becoming a reliable offensive threat, Reyna has embraced every challenge.
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
“I think the biggest improvement I’ve made is definitely with my hitting,” he said. “My first couple of years were rough. I’d find myself behind in the count a lot. But after my sophomore season, I put in work over the summer and fall, had a solid junior year, and now I feel confident stepping up in big moments.”
A big part of his evolution comes from MacArthur’s coaching staff, who have helped shape his game—and mindset.
“The coaches push us every day to be our best,” Reyna said. “They know nobody’s perfect, but they help us focus on the little things that make a big difference. They’ve helped me understand what I need to work on and how to keep improving.”
The stars of 2024-25 MacArthur BaseballJamey Wright (VYPE)
As his high school career winds down, Reyna has his eyes on the next chapter—continuing to play at the collegiate level and staying close to the sport he loves.
“I’m hoping to play baseball at the next level, wherever that may be,” he said. “There are a few colleges I’m looking at, and it’s exciting—for me and my family. I also want to study Sports Medicine or something similar. One day, I’d love to come back and coach at Aldine ISD. I’ve coached before, and helping kids grow their game is something I’m passionate about. That’s the ultimate goal.”
With his determination, leadership, and genuine love for the game, Reyna has already made a lasting impact at MacArthur. And as he prepares for what’s next, there’s no doubt he’ll keep making an impact—on and off the field.