By Derrick Smith

Coaches are an important part of the development of their athletes. While they teach the fundamentals of their sport and how to be a better competitor, they also serve as a role model for their athletes to look up to and see as an example. 

Ty Grimes says that his coach has played a big role in his life, and it is about more than just sports.

“One of my biggest role models is my coach, coach Scott,” he said. “He’s shown me so many things in the game of basketball and how to act on and off the floor. He is a really great coach.”

Grimes is a junior at Ripley High School where he is a member of the basketball team. He plays at small forward but can play just about any position on the court. He has played basketball for most of his life and says that it has taken a lot to get to where he is today. 

“I have put in a lot of work over the years,” he said. “Also, I have been in the gym daily to work on my game and continuously get better. I try my best to be coachable and listen to what they tell me.”

Someone else that has made a difference in Ty’s life would be Joey Graham. 

“He has been my favorite teacher because of how he taught me to play the game of basketball.” 

During his career, Grimes has enjoyed some memorable and exciting moments. He says that out of all of them, hitting a big-time shot is one that he will not soon forget.

“I would say that the highlight of my career would be hitting the go ahead 3-pointer against Mulhall-Orlando.”

Away from sports, Grimes is also a member of the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America organization and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.