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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.
Goose Creek Memorial's Kimora Douglas
PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS: Track has become one of multiple callings for GCM's Douglas
“Because I grew up during COVID, I was pretty antisocial as a child,” Douglas admitted with a laugh. “So, I decided to put myself in a bunch of sports to break out of my shell. I played volleyball, tennis, and a few others, but track ended up speaking to me the most.
“I was immediately placed in hurdles because of my long legs and height for my age at the time. I’ve stuck with it since, and now it’s my passion. I do a lot of training outside of school because you can’t be a true athlete unless you’re willing to put in the work when no one is watching.”
Some of the stars of 2024-25 GCM Girls Track & FieldJamey Wright (VYPE)
Hurdles have become Douglas’ specialty. The Goose Creek Memorial junior placed in the top five of both the100m and 300m hurdles at last year’s district meet.
But despite that strong showing, she has her sights set even higher this season.
“I’m hoping to set some PRs (personal records), especially in the hurdling events,” she said. “Endurance is something I’ve really been focusing on, and I’m finally seeing improvements in my times. I wasn’t too happy with how I finished last season, so this year is my comeback.”
While track has helped Douglas find confidence, it wasn’t her first passion.
“I’ve always loved medicine,” she shared. “My aunt is a director of nurses, and I’ve wanted to follow in her footsteps while focusing on radiology. Even though I’ve had my moments, I try to be a happy, energetic person because spreading positivity is important to me. My goal is to help others get better—both in life and, eventually, in the medical field.”
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
She has a mentor in her career aspirations, but what about in track?
“I love me some Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone,” Douglas said, referring to the world record holder in the 400m hurdles. “Since I started running, she’s been someone I look up to, not just for her role on Team USA but also for her incredible length and stride.”
She’s also inspired by 2024 Olympic gold medalist Masai Russell.
“I love her technique and the energy she brings,” Douglas said. “She doesn’t let anything rattle her, which is something I admire.”
As the season unfolds, Douglas hopes to make her own mark—both with her performances and the energy she brings to the track. With months of preparation behind her, she’s ready to make her presence felt at the district meet in April.