Bragg
Braylen McCune
Arizona Akers
Kayson Pennington
Jonah Raynes
celebrate.
PLAY HARD. DREAM BIG. ALWAYS REMEMBER.
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Zayden
Wimer
# 60 PLAYER PROFILE
AA POCA DOTS | # 60 | LEFT TACKLE
At just 14 years old, Zayden Wimer has already built a reputation for grit, heart, and an unshakable love for the game. Growing up in Poca, West Virginia, Zayden first stepped onto the football field four years ago with his local little league team—the AA Poca Dots—and instantly knew he had found his passion. Since then, he has never looked back.
Zayden plays left tackle, proudly wearing the number 60, and brings strength and determination to every snap. He looks up to his favorite player, Trent Williams, and channels that same toughness in practices and games. His favorite moment from this past season wasn’t a single big play—it was the preseason workouts that tested his will and brought him closer to his teammates.
ForZayden,footballisaboutmorethan wins and losses. It’s about the bond he shares with his teammates. “The teammates are the best part of being onthisteam,”hesays.“Theyhelpoutif you’re struggling.” That attitude reflects his deep respect for teamwork and perseverance, a mindset shaped by his biggest role model—his mom. “She showed me the truth and made me finish out the season even though at the moment I didn’t want to,” Zayden explains, crediting her encouragement with keeping him grounded and committed.
WYATT
Spelock
# 96 PLAYER PROFILE
NITRO LITTLE LEAGUE FOOTBALL B TEAM| # 96 | LINEMAN
For Wyatt Spelock, football isn’t just a sport—it’s a family tradition and a way to create lasting memories with friends. Growing up in Nitro, West Virginia, Wyatt has always been surrounded by a love for the game. Inspired by his family’s passion for football, he joined the Nitro Little League Football B Team two years ago, proudly wearing the number 96 as a lineman.
Wyatt says the best part of this season was simple but meaningful: “Getting to play with friends!” That sense of camaraderie is what fuels his dedication to the game. He admires Hammond Russell, his favorite player, and also cheers for his favorite team, WVU, always finding motivation in the athletes who give their all on the field.
FWhen he’s not practicing or competing, Wyatt enjoys playing video games and drawing, showing his creativity and energy both on and off the field. His biggest role models, however, aren’t found on TV—they’re right at home. “My mom and dad are my role models,” Wyatt shares. “They help me with anything I want to do and are always there forme.”
His family’s love and encouragement shine through every time Wyatt steps onto the field. As his parents proudly say: “We love watching you play your heart out on the field! We are beyondproudofyouandloveyou somuch!”
With determination, talent, and the support of his family and friends, Wyatt is building a strong foundation both as a player and as a person. His journey in football is just getting started, but his heart, teamwork, and drive alreadysethimapart.
Mychael
Morley
PLAYER PROFILE
NITRO CHALLENGERS BASEBALL | # 7 | UTILITY
# 7
At just 7 years old, Mychael “MJ” Morley is already making his mark on the diamond. Growing up in Saint Albans, West Virginia, Mychael has been playing baseball for three years with the Nitro Challengers, proudly wearing the number 7. Whether he’s at bat, in the field, or just spending time with his teammates, Mychael is always ready to give his all—no matter the position.
When asked about his favorite sports moment from this season, Mychael doesn’t point to a big play or a win, but instead to the people who make the game possible: “Loved all the volunteers,” he says, showing the heart and gratitude that set him apart.
FMychael’s love for sports started early, inspired by his parents, and his biggest role models remain closetohome.“MomandDad,”he shares proudly, crediting them with teaching him the values of hard work and encouragement. His favorite player is his dad, a reminder that for MJ, family is always at the center of his journey.
Though baseball is his sport, Mychael is also a huge Tar Heels basketball fan and enjoys swimming when he’s away from thefield.Thebestpartofbeingon a team? For him, it’s simple: “Seeingfriends.”
His parents couldn’t be prouder, sharing,“WeloveuMJandweare so very proud of you!” That love and support, combined with MJ’s energy and joy for the game, make him not only a strong athletebutalsoagreatteammate. With his positive spirit and determination, Mychael has a bright future ahead—both on and offthefield.
Dalton
Bragg
PLAYER PROFILE
POCA HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL | # 31 | RUNNING BACK
# 31
For Dalton Bragg, football has always been more than just a game—it’s a passion fueled by family and a drive to succeed. Growing up in Poca, West Virginia, Dalton has spent the last eight years dedicated to the sport, inspired by his biggest role model: his dad.
Dalton currently plays for Poca High School, proudly wearing the number 31 as a running back. Known for his determination and effort on the field, Dalton says his favorite part of football is simple: “The teamwork.” That mindset has carried him through countless practices and games, making him not only a strong player but also a trusted teammate.
He looks up to legendary linebacker Ray Lewis, admiring his energy and leadership, while cheering for his favorite team, Ohio State. This season, what stands out most to Dalton isn’t just the action—it’s the game of football itself, a sport that continues to challenge and inspirehimeveryday.
WhenDaltonisn’tonthefield,he enjoys working on body repairs for vehicles, showing the same hands-on focus and patience that he brings to the game. His parents are his strongest supporters, always reminding him, “You can do anything you putyourmindto.”
With his dedication, family support, and love for the game, Dalton is carving out a future defined by hard work and perseverance. Whether he’s powering through defenders or helping his team push forward, Dalton is proving that with effort and determination, there’s no limittowhathecanachieve.
Braylen
McCune
PLAYER PROFILE
NITRO LITTLE LEAGUE – ROARING RAPTORS | # 15
# 15
From Cross Lanes, West Virginia, Braylen McCune is bringing energy, joy, and heart to the diamond as part of the Roaring Raptors in Nitro Little League. Wearing #15, Braylen is in his second year of baseball and continues to grow each time he steps on the field.
One of his favorite memories this season was a big personal milestone—running the bases all by himself! That moment captured the excitement of the game and how far Braylen has come in his baseball journey.
Whilehedoesn'thaveafavorite team or player just yet, Braylen shows true love for the game through his effort and eagernesstolearn.When asked whatthebestpartofbeingona team is, he says it's about “learning to play together,” showing his understanding of teamwork and friendship on andoffthefield.
Offthediamond,Braylenenjoys iPad time, swimming, and playing outside, keeping his days full of fun and discovery. And when it comes to role models, his answer is as heartwarming as it is true: “My mom, because she takes such goodcareofme.”
With love and encouragement from home—“We love you so much and are so proud of you!”—Braylen McCune is showing that with determination and a big heart, every season is a chance to shinebrighter.
Arizona
Akers
PLAYER PROFILE
# 30
WV THUNDER / ST. ALBANS GIRLS LEAGUE / WV WILD | # 30 | POINT GUARD
From the first time she picked up a basketball in kindergarten, Arizona Akers knew she had found her sport. Over the years, her dedication has only grown stronger. What began as a love for the game has developed into a commitment to improving her skills every season and becoming a leader on the court.
As a point guard, Arizona thrives in the role of guiding her team, setting up plays, and keeping the energy high. For her, the best part of being on a team is simple but powerful: “Making friendships and all working together.” She believes the game is about more than just winning—it’s about supporting one another and growing together.
Off the court, Arizona loves being outdoors. Whether she’s riding side-by-sides, playing in the river, or taking care of her fish pond, she bringsthesamesenseof joy and energy to her hobbies that she does to basketball.
Her biggest inspirations are Caitlin Clark and her teammate Sofia, both of whom she admires for their teamwork, determination, and drive to always get better. Like them, Arizona is focused on building not just her talent, but also her character as a teammate andfriend.
With her dedication, leadership, and love of the game, Arizona Akers is a player to watch as she continues to shine both on and off the court.
Jonah
Raynes
PLAYER PROFILE
NITRO CHALLENGER LEAGUE – TEAM WV ABLE | # 8
# 8
From Cross Lanes, West Virginia, Jonah Raynes is a multi-talented athlete who brings energy, positivity, and heart to Team WV Able in the Nitro Challenger League. Wearing #8 and taking on all positions, Jonah is always ready to give his best and support his team wherever he’s needed.
With 7 years of experience, Jonah's journey in sports has been inspired by his greatest heroes—his brothers —whom he looks up to both on and off the field. One of his favorite memories this season was simply playing alongside all his teammates, showing that for Jonah, it's not just about the plays—it’s about the people.
Jonah’s favorite team is WVU, and when he's not out on the diamond, he enjoys camping, soccer, and fishing, staying active and exploring the outdoors. Whether he’s reeling in a catch or running the field, Jonah gives every moment his full enthusiasm.
To Jonah, the best part of being on a team is simple: “Friendships.” He values the connections he builds and the fun he shares with his teammates, always ready with a smile and a positive attitude.
With the love and support of his family—“You are amazing”—Jonah Raynes is not only a key player but a shining example of what sports are all about: effort, friendship, and joy. Keep an eye on #8—he’s always ready to make the next big play!
Kayson
Pennington
PLAYER PROFILE
NITRO LITTLE LEAGUE – PEOPLES FEDERAL CREDIT UNION T-BALL | # 22
# 22
Meet Kayson Pennington, a bright and energetic first-year player for the Peoples Federal Credit Union T-Ball team in Nitro Little League. Representing St. Albans, West Virginia, and proudly wearing #22, Kayson is already making memories and learning the game with a big smile and a lot of heart.
This season’s favorite moment? Hitting the ball off a pitch—a huge milestone for a first-time player! Kayson has embraced every position on the field and brings a willingness to try anything and have fun doing it.
Kayson got started in baseball simplybygivingitatry,andit’s already becoming a new favoriteactivity.Offthefield,he lovesplayingoutsideandriding his bike, always staying active andadventurous.
When asked about the best partofbeingonateam,Kayson says it's making friends—a perfectreminderofwhatyouth sportsareallabout.Hisbiggest role model? His cousin Addyson, who plays with him andinspireshimeverydaywith her support and shared love of thegame.
With proud cheers from home —“We are so proud of you and love watching you play!”— Kayson Pennington is just beginning his journey in baseball, and he’s already showing that effort, friendship, and fun are the winning combination. Keep your eye on #22—he’sofftoagreatstart!
FAITH IN SPORTS PLAYING FOR A BETTER PURPOSE
By Nate Thompson
In sports, we learn the importance of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. But as athletes of faith, our drive doesn’t just come from the scoreboard—it comes from the words of Jesus. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus teaches:
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
This verse reminds us that no matter how much we love the game, our first priority should be putting God at the center of everything we do. That means competing with integrity, respecting our teammates and coaches, and showing kindness to our opponents. Wins and losses will come and go, but living out our faith leaves a lasting impact.
When you step onto the field or court, ask yourself: Am I playing just for myself—or am I playing to honor God? By putting Him first, we discover a deeper joy in the game, one that isn’t tied to stats or trophies.
So next time you suit up, remember Matthew 6:33. Compete with passion, but also with faith—because in God’s eyes, the way you play matters far more than the final score.