Knights Edition November 2025

ATHLETES FEATURED FROM

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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15 13 11 03 05 07

Aubree Hodge 21 17 18 19

Local Business Directory Faith In Sports

PLAYER PROFILE SUBMISSION

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Disclaimer: Please note that all photos featured in this magazine have been submitted voluntarily by parents or volunteer photographers, and the league has included a waiver and disclaimer in the registration completed by the parent or guardian prior to the season starting. Additionally, the intended audience for this publication is exclusively the parents and league participants. The content featured in our publication, which includes images of youth athletes, local businesses, league updates, and other information, is intended solely for informational purposes. We strive to accurately represent the activities, achievements, and stories of individuals and organizations within our community. Please note that while we make every effort to obtain consent and permission for the use of images and information, there may be instances where individuals or businesses are inadvertently included without explicit consent. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and encourage anyone who wishes to have their image or information removed to contact us promptly. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in our publication are those of the authors and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of our organization. We do not endorse any specific products, services, or businesses featured in our publication unless explicitly stated. By accessing and using our website and publication, you agree to release us from any liability for unintentional use of images or information and acknowledge that the content provided is for general informational purposes only. We reserve the right to update, modify, or remove content at any time without prior notice.Thank you for your understanding and support as we continue to strive for transparency, accuracy, and integrity in our publication. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the content featured, please don't hesitate to contact us.

celebrate.

PLAY HARD. DREAM BIG. ALWAYS REMEMBER.

From the moment Colton Gray first picked up a bat—almost taking out a living room lamp in the process—his family knew he was bound for baseball greatness. Today, the Barboursville native is proving them right with his energy, dedication, and love for the game.

Colton has been playing baseball since T-ball, thanks to his mom signing him up, a decision he now calls “the best ever.” Over the years, he’s grown into a strong first baseman with a knack for big moments. One of his all-time favorite memories came while playing on the Tower Team in Barboursville Little League: “We won the tournament championship, had it taken away because someone slid into home headfirst, and then came back to win it again. Our team was absolutely losing their minds—it was awesome.” That spirit of never giving up continues to drive him.

He proudly wears No. 45 and is looking forward to Senior League tryouts this season. His favorite team, the Pittsburgh Pirates, and his favorite player, Paul Skenes, inspire his play, but it’s NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo who serves as his biggest role model. “He’s a strong player but remains humble and grounded,” Colton says, reflecting the kind of attitude he hopes to bring both on and off the field.

When he’s not chasing line drives or taking swings, Colton enjoys fishing, hunting, pickup football games in the backyard, and indulging in his favorite “unhealthy” foods. But no matter the activity, he thrives on the camaraderie that comes with being part of a team. Ask him the best part about it, and he’ll grin and say: “High fives, hot moms, and good games!”

Whether he’s diving for a ball, hustling around the bases, or just being the spark that keeps his teammates fired up, Colton Gray is a player to watch this season. And if his parents’ words are any indication, he’s just getting started: “Keep swinging for the fences—but avoid the car windows!”

HODGEAUBREE

Full of energy, smiles, and spirit, Aubree Hodge is bringing cheer to Barboursville both on and off the sidelines. As a member of the Barboursville Youth Cheer D Team, this young cheerleader has quickly become known for her enthusiasm, bright personality, and love for her teammates.

Aubree’s journey into cheer began after visiting the Cabell Midland Cheer Camp, where she fell in love with the excitement of performing and the joy of cheering with others. Her favorite part of this season has been meeting new friends, playing with other kids, and learning her cheers — experiences that have helped her grow in confidence and spirit.

When she’s not on the sidelines, Aubree enjoys drawing, playing with her cats and sister, watching TV, and gaming on Xbox. She’s a big Marshall fan and looks up to her favorite player — her brother, Brantlee, who inspires her to work hard and have fun.

Aubree says the best part of being on a team is “getting to have fun with my friends,” and that joyful attitude shines through in everything she does. Her biggest role model is her mom, who she describes as her best friend and biggest supporter. “She’s always there for me, gives me hugs when I’m sad, and makes me laugh,” Aubree says. “I want to be the best mommy like her whenever I grow up.”

Her parents couldn’t be prouder, cheering her on with love: “Go Gracie Go! Mommy and Daddy are so proud of all your hard work and confidence — we can’t wait to watch you keep growing and shining!”

PLAYER PROFILE

TSYFL BARBOURSVILLE PIRATES

Full of energy, grace, and unstoppable spirit, Portia Matney is making her mark as a dedicated young cheerleader for the TSYFL Barboursville Pirates. At just two years into cheer, she’s already showing the heart and determination of a future star — one who dreams of cheering for Marshall University someday.

Portia says her favorite part of the season has been tumbling on the sidelines with her teammates, where the excitement of the crowd and the bond with her cheer sisters come together in perfect rhythm. “I love cheering and doing competitions with all my friends — it’s so fun!” she says with a big smile.

Her inspiration to start cheer came from watching others stunt and tumble — she knew right away that she wanted to be part of that world. Now, she’s doing exactly that, surrounded by teammates she calls her favorite players of all.

Off the field, Portia enjoys jumping on the trampoline, playing with her dolls, hanging out with friends, and exploring fashion — all things that reflect her creativity and confidence. Her role model is Dolly Parton, who she admires for her kindness and grace: “She’s beautiful and very nice to others. I want to be like that too.”

Even after facing challenges this season, Portia has proven that her strength shines brightest through adversity. Her parents shared the perfect message: “Portia, we are so proud of the strong, beautiful, kind, amazing little girl you are! Even through setbacks, you’ve shown grace and unshakable spirit. We love you and love watching you shine — on the field and in life!”

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FOXELLEY

PLAYER PROFILE

REVOLUTION GYMNASTICS

Grace, strength, and dedication — Elley Fox brings it all to the gymnastics floor. From her hometown of Milton, West Virginia, Elley has been flipping, leaping, and soaring since she was just three years old. What started as recreational classes quickly turned into a passion for competition, inspired by watching the Olympics and seeing gymnasts like Simone Biles and Suni Lee chase greatness.

That inspiration clearly paid off — Elley was crowned 1st All-Around State Champion this past March and ranked 6th in the entire state of West Virginia. Now, she’s taking her skills to the next level as she competes in Xcel Gold this season. Her hard work and determination show that she’s not just talented — she’s driven.

For Elley, the best part of gymnastics isn’t just winning titles; it’s cheering on her teammates and celebrating everyone’s success. “Getting the opportunity to compete your skills and cheer on your friends makes it so much fun,” she says. That team spirit and positivity have made her a standout both on and off the mat.

Outside the gym, Elley loves watching football, softball, and baseball, especially when her favorite teams — the WVU Mountaineers and the Cincinnati Reds — are playing. She’s a big sports fan at heart and brings that same energy to everything she does.

Her biggest role model, Simone Biles, inspires her with her hard work and dedication, qualities Elley strives to embody every day. Her family couldn’t be prouder, saying, “Elley, we are so proud of you and all your accomplishments! You’re the best daughter and greatest big sister. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for you.”

With her focus, talent, and unstoppable spirit, Elley Fox is flipping her way toward a bright future — one routine at a time.

Hinton # 42 Grayson

PLAYER PROFILE

BARBOURSVILLE PIRATES | # 42 | OFFENSIVE TACKLE AND DEFENSIVE TACKLE

For Grayson Hinton, stepping onto the field for the first time this season has been nothing short of exciting. A proud member of the Barboursville Pirates, Grayson plays both offensive tackle and defensive tackle (OT/DT) — positions that demand focus, teamwork, and grit, all qualities this young athlete has in abundance.

Though this is Grayson’s first year playing football, he’s already making memorable moments. His favorite so far? Winning his very first game ever! That victory solidified his passion for the sport and showed him the rewards of dedication and teamwork.

Grayson’s inspiration to play came from watching his big brother, Noah, light up the field. “Watching him in action made me want to jump into the game and give it my all,” he says. Now, Grayson is carving out his own path in the sport — and loving every minute of it.

Off the field, Grayson has a wide range of interests. He enjoys reading, traveling to explore new places, playing Roblox, and especially eating seafood. He’s also a big fan of Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens, admiring their energy and drive.

But when it comes to real-life heroes, Grayson looks to his granddad, a talented artist whose paintings can be found throughout Washington, D.C. “He’s my biggest role model,” Grayson says proudly. “He’s creative, hardworking, and inspires me to follow my passions.”

For Grayson, the best part of being on a team is simple: “My teammates.” The friendships and camaraderie are what make football special to him.

His family couldn’t agree more, sharing a heartfelt message: “We truly love you and want you to know how incredibly proud we are of you. We’re here for you and believe in you every step of the way.”

With that kind of support — and his determination to succeed — Grayson Hinton is ready to keep chasing big wins on and off the field.

Grayson

Bailey

PLAYER PROFILE

BARBOURSVILLE LITTLE LEAGUE | # 9 | RIGHT FIELDER

# 9

Meet Grayson Bailey, a dedicated young athlete whose love for baseball runs deep. Playing for the Barboursville Little League Dodgers, Grayson proudly wears number 9 and brings both skill and determination to the field as a right fielder.

With eight seasons under his belt, Grayson has already experienced plenty of memorable moments — but his favorite this year came during a high-pressure game. “At the bottom of the third inning, I was pitching and was able to hold the other team for the win,” he recalls. That clutch performance showed exactly what makes him a valuable teammate: focus, calm under pressure, and a love for competition.

Inspired by the teamwork and learning that baseball brings, Grayson says he plays because he loves “being part of a team and learning more about the sport as a whole.” His favorite team, the New York Yankees, and his favorite player, Aaron Judge, motivate him to keep improving every season.

Off the diamond, Grayson stays just as active. He enjoys soccer, being part of the Pirate Crew, and serving on Safety Patrol, but what he values most is spending time with his family. For Grayson, the best part of being on a team is simple but meaningful: “Making memories with new and old friends.” That sense of connection and sportsmanship shines through in everything he does.

When asked who inspires him most, Grayson doesn’t hesitate — it’s his mom. “She’s always in my corner cheering me on, even if I mess up,” he says. Her encouragement keeps him grounded and motivated to give his best, both on and off the field.

And his mom couldn’t be prouder, sharing a message that says it all: “No matter how many times life gets you down, always get back up and try again. You’re an amazing young man with so much to offer. I can’t wait to see the big things you’ll do in life.”

With his perseverance, positivity, and love for the game, Grayson Bailey is already swinging for success — in baseball and beyond.

FAITH IN SPORTS GIVE THANKS AND THANKSGIVING

By Nate Thompson

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”

Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 that these three things are of God's will for us in Christ Jesus

1. Find joy in the Gospel and the message of Jesus Christ. Rejoice to God, to the world, to anyone. Rejoice that joy of Jesus.

2. To pray continually, because so many time prayer becomes a task for big moments when we should pray continually, big or small moments, whether we are happy or sad, whether we are winning or losing, there is never a time God doesn't want you to come to Him and reach out in prayer.

3. To give thanks in all circumstances, not just the good. There are plenty of reasons to give thanks. Family, friends, winning the game and being MVP. But do you ever thank God when you are losing? When life is hard, in brokenness, hurt and in pain we can give thankfulness.

In James 1:2-3 it says, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

When we let gratitude to shape our circumstances, rather than our circumstances shape our gratitude, we start to walk in God’s will more in our lives. Remember this season of Thanksgiving to be giving thanks in all circumstances.

Foster Olivia

PLAYER PROFILE

BARBOURSVILLE YOUTH LEAGUE — C-TEAM CHEERLEADING

With energy, focus, and an unstoppable drive, Olivia Foster is a rising star in the world of cheerleading. Hailing from Barboursville, West Virginia, Olivia has been cheering since she was five years old — and in just three years, she’s already become a vital part of her squad as a main base on the Barboursville Youth League C-Team.

This season, Olivia’s favorite accomplishment has been gaining new stunt and tumbling skills while working hard to perfect advanced material for the 2025 TSYFL Cheer Competition. Her dedication and team spirit shine every time she steps on the mat. “Being one of the strongest bases and helping my team is the best part,” Olivia says proudly. “We work hard together to be exceptionally great!”

When she’s not practicing cheer, Olivia keeps busy with plenty of other passions — she loves dance, soccer, tumbling, singing, exploring, and reading. Her favorite teams, Marshall and Ohio State, fuel her competitive spirit and remind her that hard work and teamwork lead to success.

Olivia looks up to two special role models in her life — Ella Fetty, who she admires for her leadership and dedication as a cheerleader, and her mom, who inspires her every day. “She helps me, supports me, and encourages me to be great and do my best,” Olivia says. “I want to be an amazing CMHS cheerleader one day, just like both of them!”

Her family couldn’t be prouder, sharing this heartfelt message:

“Olivia, you are absolutely incredible in every way possible! You amaze us every day with your strength, talent, and kind heart. We can’t wait to watch all the amazing things you’ll accomplish in the years to come!”

With her determination, grace, and passion for cheer, Olivia Foster is a name to remember — and she’s only getting started.

Madison

McCallister

PLAYER PROFILE

TEAM NC SMITH 16U | # 14 | CATCHER

# 14

Focused, driven, and full of heart, Madison McCallister brings strength and leadership to every game she plays. A standout catcher for Team NC Smith 16U, Madison wears number 14 and has been making waves in the softball world since she first stepped onto the field at age 10.

Her journey began with inspiration from Morgan Zerkle, a player whose determination and comeback story left a lasting impression. Now, Madison is following in those same footsteps — playing with passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to her team.

One of her proudest memories from this season was winning states, a moment that reflected all the hard work, practice, and teamwork that went into the season. For Madison, softball isn’t just about the game — it’s about the people. “The best part of being on a team is making bonds with your peers,” she says. “Those friendships make every moment on the field worth it.”

Off the diamond, Madison’s curiosity and creativity shine. She loves psychology, enjoys baking, and spends her downtime gaming — all outlets that balance her competitive spirit with her thoughtful side.

Her favorite player, Mia Scott, and her favorite team, Stanford Softball, both embody the discipline and excellence she strives for. But it’s still Morgan Zerkle who remains her greatest role model. “She suffered a severe injury and came back better than ever,” Madison explains. “That kind of strength inspires me to keep pushing forward.”

Her parents’ words perfectly capture her attitude toward life and sports: “The only things you can control are your attitude and effort.” Madison brings both of those — and more — to every practice, game, and challenge she faces.

With her focus, resilience, and love for the game, Madison McCallister is well on her way to making a lasting mark in the world of softball.