Taylor Gray Earns National Recognition for USL2 Excellence

WALESKA, Ga. – During the summer months, many of the nation's elite college players are selected to compete in the highest amateur league to continue their professional development while maintaining their eligibility.

Typically, Reinhardt men's soccer places a significant percentage of the program's players in the USL League Two with quality clubs as players work to progress towards their dreams of playing professionally after graduation.

USL League Two has proved-to-be an important stepping stone for top professionals now playing throughout the world – with more than 70 percent of all selections in the MLS Superdraft since 2010 having USL2 experience. The league is regarded as the 'Pathway to the Pros,' and an opportunity for the nation's best collegiate players to compete against the very best amateur players in the country.

With the elite level of competition in place, it is an honor to be recognized as a top performer. Senior Taylor Gray, who was recently recognized by the Appalachian Athletic Conference, has since been recognized by the USL2 as a top prospect from the USA in the league in 2019.

"It has been a privilege for me to watch Taylor develop as a person and a player in his seasons here at Reinhardt," lead Eagle Joey Johnson said. "National recognition is not simply given freely… It is earned.  Taylor has worked hard to get to the level where he can compete with the nation's best and I am excited to see what his future holds on and off the field."

Gray was named as one of 12 finalists nationwide in the 'Global Greats' honors for his standout season with USL2 side Tri-City Otters. As the voting drew to a close, Gray finished runner-up to Mercer (Ga.) standout Kobe Perez, who signed professionally with Tormenta FC. 

Coincidentally, former Reinhardt assistant coach Jorge Gonzalez is a current member of the coaching staff at USL League One side Tormenta FC. 

For more information on the 'Global Greats' series and the USL League Two, click here.

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For more information on Reinhardt Men's Soccer, please click here.