Gracie Price: A Rising Star in Idaho Falls Sports
IDAHO FALLS — In the bustling world of high school athletics, few names resonate as consistently as Gracie Price. A sophomore at Thunder Ridge High School, Price has made a significant impact on both the soccer field and the wrestling mat, showcasing her versatility and competitive spirit. As the season progresses, her name appears frequently on the weekly scoresheets, a testament to her skill and determination.
Dual Threat: Soccer and Wrestling
Gracie Price is not just a standout in one sport; she excels in two. This season, she has emerged as one of the leading scorers for the Thunder Ridge Titans girls soccer team. Her ability to find the back of the net has been crucial for her team, particularly in tight matches. Recently, she secured game-winning goals in two critical conference victories against Canyon Ridge, helping propel her team into playoff contention.
But soccer is only part of Price’s athletic journey. She has been wrestling since she was about ten years old and recently finished second in the state tournament in the 100-pound weight class. This dual-sport commitment speaks volumes about her dedication and work ethic, traits that are often hard to find in young athletes.
The Physicality of Competition
Price’s wrestling background significantly influences her approach to soccer. Despite her smaller stature, she embraces the physicality of the game, often seeking out the biggest opponents on the field. “I like the physical part of it,” Price shared with EastIdahoNews.com. “I can, kind of, get my anger out — it’s exciting.” This fearless attitude has not gone unnoticed by her teammates and coaches.
Jason Lance, the head coach of the Thunder Ridge girls soccer team, praised Price’s competitive nature. “She’s small in stature, but she plays like someone twice her size,” he remarked. “She’s extremely competitive and fearless on the field.” Such attributes are invaluable in a sport where physicality can often dictate the outcome of a match.
A Season of Growth and Team Spirit
This year was expected to be a rebuilding season for the Titans, but the team has exceeded expectations, currently sitting in third place in the 6A High Country Conference. With their final game against Madison on the horizon, the Titans are still in the hunt for a playoff berth. Price’s contributions have been pivotal, and her leadership on the field is evident.
When asked about her aspirations for the season, Price emphasized the importance of sportsmanship. “It’s something that could help not just with sports but with your attitude in general,” she stated. This perspective reflects a maturity beyond her years, highlighting her understanding of the broader implications of athletics.
Transitioning to Wrestling
As the soccer season draws to a close, Price is already looking ahead to wrestling. She plans to shift her focus immediately to training and practices, eager to build on her previous success. After a strong finish to her freshman season, she is considering moving up a weight class to 107 pounds.
When discussing her goals for the upcoming wrestling season, Price prefers to set smaller, achievable benchmarks rather than fixating on a single, overarching goal like a state title. This approach allows her to maintain focus and motivation throughout the season, ensuring that she continues to improve and develop her skills.
Future Aspirations
While many high school athletes begin to contemplate their futures, Gracie Price remains grounded in the present. “I want to focus on what’s happening now more than what’s so far in the future,” she explained. This mindset not only aids her performance in sports but also reflects a healthy approach to life’s challenges.
As the Titans prepare for their crucial match against Madison, the excitement surrounding Gracie Price continues to build. Her journey through high school sports is just beginning, and with her talent, determination, and competitive spirit, she is poised to make a lasting impact in both soccer and wrestling.
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