Union High School’s Grayson Tempest has called the gridiron home since he first started playing ball in the fourth grade. Now the “talk of the tailgate,” Tempest is one of the senior leaders and quarterback for the Redhawks and a player to watch every Friday night.
“Growing up as a kid watching the Union games, I used to look up to the players on the team and look forward to the day I would be on the team. Now that I’m out there playing, it’s special for me knowing all the kids that are in the stands looking up to us. It’s much bigger than just football, it’s about the opportunity to impact those watching,” said Tempest. “Union requires all of its students to hold themselves to a standard. Whether it’s the standard on the football team or the standard required in school, Union does things the right way.”
Tempest said he loves playing with this group of guys because they work hard and never give up.
“I love how close the team gets with each other throughout the season. It starts in the spring, then all through the summer, then the season. The brotherhood created through all of this time together is special,” said Tempest.
Tempest and his teammates have made some great memories over the years. One stands out which came against a crosstown rival.
“My favorite moment at a game was my first varsity touchdown against Owasso my sophomore year. Gage Arthur has been my go-to receiver since eighth grade, and for my first varsity touchdown to be a pass to him was special. It was a moment I’ll always remember,” said Tempest.
Once his playing days at Union come to an end, Tempest said he plans to attend college and major in business. Before he turns his focus to college, Tempest and the Redhawks are focused on making the most of the 2022 season.
“I’ll miss everything about gameday. From the walk through, the pre-game meal, meetings, walking out, I’ll miss it all,” said Tempest.