For 20-year-old Grayson Owens, soccer has been more than a sport—it’s been a lifeline. Now a Business major at National Park College, Grayson’s journey from high school to college athlete is rooted in his transformative experience with Play Where You Stay. “I didn’t even want to go to college,” he admits. “But Maxi called me one day and said he had an opportunity for me. It wasn’t a question—he told me I had to go. That moment changed everything.”

“I think it—a lot, to be honest, because a lot of people wouldn’t be playing soccer if it wasn’t for Play Where You Stay. I wouldn’t be in college right now if it wasn’t for Play Where You Stay, or at least where I’m at. I know a lot of people who wouldn’t have been where they were if it wasn’t for Play Where You Stay. Because a lot of people—a lot here is pay-to-play. A lot of people can’t, you know…”
– Grayson Owens

Grayson joined Play Where You Stay in his junior year of high school, drawn in by friends and a shared passion for soccer. Under the mentorship of Coach Maxi, he found more than just technical training—he discovered discipline, confidence, and a deep sense of connection. “Maxi wasn’t just about soccer,” Grayson recalls. “He cared about everything—my family, my academics, my future. That personal connection made all the difference.”

Play Where You Stay’s commitment to accessibility also played a pivotal role in Grayson’s development. “Pay-to-play excludes so many talented kids,” he explains. “With Play Where You Stay, it didn’t matter where you were from or how much money you had—you could play. That’s why the teams were so strong.”

Reflecting on his time with the program, Grayson speaks fondly of the camaraderie and joy he experienced on and off the field. “There’s not one memory that stands out—it’s all of them. Winning games, celebrating as a team—it’s a bond you never forget,” he shares. Now in his second year at NPC, Grayson’s perspective on education has evolved. While academics remain a challenge, he’s motivated by his love for the game and the support of his coaches and teammates.

Looking ahead, Grayson aspires to transfer to a four-year university to continue his soccer career and earn a bachelor’s degree. His message to high schoolers considering Play Where You Stay is clear: “Take the chance. It could change your life. I wouldn’t be where I am today without it.”

Grayson’s story is a testament to the power of opportunity, mentorship, and the enduring impact of a program that believes in every player’s potential. “Play Where You Stay taught me more than just soccer—it taught me to believe in myself and my future,” he says.