Role models can play a big role in the lives of young athletes. They can not only be a positive influence on them as athletes, but they can also be an example of how to act away from the game. Dray Curtis has a couple of people that he says have had a big impact on his life.

“My biggest role model would have to be Kobe Bryant,” Curtis said. “He had a great work ethic and that is something that I strive for. Another would be coach Daniel Brimmer because he pushes me every day to be my best.”

Dray is a senior at Cleveland High School. He plays both basketball and soccer for the Tigers. He is also a member of the school’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Curtis says that being successful takes a lot, even going above the normal work.

“It takes a lot in order to reach your full potential,” he said. “You have to put in the extra work after practice is over and work to get stronger every day. One thing that keeps me motivated is my teammates. I want to be at my best when we step on the court to play and I don’t want to let them down.”

Brimmer, the head boys basketball coach at Cleveland, says that Curtis is a solid player and should take on a bigger responsibility with the team.

“Dray is a small guard,” Brimmer said. “But he put in a lot of work over the summer and he is ready to take over as our leader. He is a great shooter and can get to the rim and finish. Dray has a chance to score a ton of points this year.”

Scoring points is something that Dray does very well. He says that his favorite moment playing sports so far has been just that.

“The highlight moment of my career so far has been when I scored 42 points in one game,” he recalled. “I was just feeling it that night.”

When he puts on the Cleveland uniform, it is for more than just to play a game according to Dray.

“I want to be a good role model for the younger kids that watch me,” he said.