Gracie Price: A Dual-Sport Dynamo in Idaho Falls
In the heart of Idaho Falls, the Thunder Ridge Titans girls soccer team has a standout player who is making waves both on the soccer field and the wrestling mat. Sophomore Gracie Price is not just a name on the scoresheet; she is a force to be reckoned with, consistently leading her team in points while also excelling in wrestling.
Early Beginnings in Sports
Gracie Price’s journey in athletics began at a young age. Having started wrestling at around 10 years old, she quickly developed a passion for the sport. Soccer followed closely behind, and over the years, she honed her skills in both disciplines. This dual-sport background has equipped her with a unique set of skills that she brings to the field and the mat.
The Physicality of the Game
One of the standout traits of Price is her willingness to embrace the physicality of soccer. Despite her slight stature, she is known for her fearless approach to the game. Price attributes this competitive edge to her wrestling background, which has instilled in her a sense of toughness and resilience. “I like the physical part of it,” she shared with EastIdahoNews.com. “I can, kind of, get my anger out — it’s exciting.”
Her teammates echo this sentiment, noting that she often seeks out the biggest opponents on the field, demonstrating a level of confidence that belies her size. This fearless attitude has made her a key player for the Titans, as she battles for possession and drives the team forward.
A Coach’s Perspective
Jason Lance, the head coach of the Thunder Ridge girls soccer team, has been impressed by Price’s competitive spirit. “She’s small in stature, but she plays like someone twice her size,” he remarked. Lance noted that her strong competitive personality is a rare find, making her an invaluable asset to the team. As the Titans navigate a rebuilding season, Price’s contributions have been pivotal in keeping the team competitive.
Currently, the Titans sit in third place in the 6A High Country Conference, with playoff aspirations alive as they approach the final game of the regular season against Madison. Price has been instrumental in this success, scoring game-winning goals in crucial matches against Canyon Ridge.
Team Goals and Sportsmanship
When asked about her aspirations for the season, Price emphasized the importance of sportsmanship. “I just hope my team shows good sportsmanship game in and game out,” she said. For her, the values learned through sports extend beyond the field, shaping attitudes and behaviors in everyday life.
Transitioning to Wrestling
As the soccer season draws to a close, Price is already looking ahead to wrestling. With a strong finish to her freshman season, she is contemplating moving up a weight class to 107 pounds. While she has set her sights on a state title, she prefers to focus on smaller, achievable goals throughout the season. This approach reflects her mindset of living in the moment and concentrating on the present rather than getting overwhelmed by future expectations.
Future Considerations
Despite her impressive accomplishments, Price remains grounded when it comes to her future. She has not yet given much thought to life after high school, preferring to concentrate on her current endeavors. “I want to focus on what’s happening now more than what’s so far in the future,” she stated, showcasing a maturity that is often rare in young athletes.
Upcoming Challenges
As the Titans prepare for their crucial matchup against Madison, the stakes are high. The outcome of this game will determine their conference standing, with the winner securing a second-place finish behind Highland. With Gracie Price leading the charge, the Titans are poised to make a strong statement as they head into the final stretch of the season.
Gracie Price’s journey as a dual-sport athlete is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and competitive spirit. Whether on the soccer field or the wrestling mat, she continues to inspire her teammates and the community with her unwavering commitment to excellence.