VYPE caught up with Klein High School Boys Soccer Coach John Lawton at their 2023-24 Winter/Spring Media Day, discussing the upcoming season and more.
Check out the interview below!
WORTH THE CHALLENGE: Taylor’s Orogun Ready to Contribute to Alief ISD in More Ways Than One
28 Mar, 2025
GOLF IS OFTEN CONSIDERED A ‘LIFELONG’ SPORT, BUT IT’S ALSO ONE OF THE HARDEST TO MASTER. FOR ALIEF TAYLOR’S OYINDAMOLA OROGUN, HOWEVER, IT QUICKLY CAPTURED HER INTEREST.
“I joined the team last year with my older brother, Funsho, to see what it was all about,” Orogun explained. “I’m not very athletic, and most of the other sports were already full, so I was glad to find something that didn’t require too much physicality. I just wish more people would appreciate it like I did.”
While Orogun grew fond of the game, she soon realized that it’s not for everyone.
“It’s definitely harder than it looks,” she said with a laugh. “Watching people play, whether in person or on TV, makes it seem easy. But actually doing it is a whole different experience. I went into it thinking I wouldn’t face too much physical strain, but I still get back pain from all the swinging. Still, I think that the challenge is worth it.”
Before joining Alief ISD, Orogun was part of the Fort Bend ISD district. After attending Albright Middle School, she ascended to Alief Taylor High and quickly felt at home.
“Of all the schools I’ve been to, I love Alief Taylor the most,” Orogun shared. “Maybe it’s because it’s high school, but there are so many more opportunities to get involved, and you meet a lot of different people. Luckily for me, I’m involved in several other clubs, so I’ve had the chance to experience everything this school has to offer.”
Among the clubs Orogun participates in are Alief Taylor’s NJROTC (Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) and TAFE (Texas Association of Future Educators). Orogun plans to continue her journey at the University of Houston, where she hopes to pursue a career in education.
“I want to become an educator,” she said. “I may play golf for fun, but my goal is to one day teach in an elementary school for Alief ISD. It’ll be a full-circle moment for me when I see that dream come true.”
Who needs ‘physicality’ when you have the determination to succeed?
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Photo provided by College Park Head Coach
The Greater Houston area hosted the UIL State Wrestling Tournament, where several locals showed up.
College Park’s Caio Aron, College Park and Logan Milsaps took home gold, while Shane Trotter, of Katy, Logan Soileau of Langham Creek, Luca Rios of College Park and Jared Remington, Clear Creek took silver in their respective events.
So many wrestlers from the Bayou City reached the State Meet. Who was your favorite?
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Grand Oaks' QB Grant Smith
By Bradley Collier
Grant Smith has all the measurables at 6-foot-4, 210 pounds. He has a big arm, strong leadership qualities, and excels in the classroom. Now, the question is—can he put it all together on the field and lead Grand Oaks to its first-ever playoff appearance?
The Class of 2026 quarterback is coming off a strong season, throwing for over 2,000 yards with 24 touchdowns and just three interceptions. Expectations are high.
“Grant is our leader and a really hard worker,” Grand Oaks head coach Shaun McDowell said. “He’s one of the best QBs I’ve ever worked with, and I feel he’s a top quarterback in Houston and in the state.”
Smith is currently making waves on the 7-on-7 circuit with RG3 Takeover, drawing attention from scouts and recruiters. His offer list is growing, but the recruiting process has its challenges.
“It’s a weird time in the recruiting cycle as schools are having to trim their rosters down to 105,” Smith explained. “That has a huge impact on how many high school offers they can accept. Several schools have told me they are re-evaluating their QB room after the portal opens next month. As far as official visits go, I don’t want to schedule any until I’ve had the chance to visit each school and staff that have given me offers.”
For now, Smith is focused on improving his game.
“I’m fine-tuning my mechanics, footwork, and off-platform throws, along with my pre-snap reads,” he said. “I want to be elite in understanding coverage schemes before the ball is even snapped.”
He has recently picked up offers from Southern Miss, Tulane, and Appalachian State.
“I’m really looking for a school that will provide a world-class education and a program that will win championships while developing me into an NFL quarterback,” Smith said. “Some schools are starting to separate themselves, but I’ve always said I want to explore every opportunity.”
One thing is certain—Smith isn’t just relying on talent and stats. He’s putting in the work, both on the field and in the film room, as he prepares for what could be a historic season for Grand Oaks.
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