CRAFTSBURY – Craftsbury Academy and Hazen Union senior soccer player, Grayson McNaughten, has earned All-State honors.
courtesy photo
McNaughten, a senior at Craftsbury Academy who served as team captain and goalkeeper for Hazen Union, had a season that included six shutouts, two of which came against Division I opponents. He also recorded two assists from the goalkeeper position and scored a goal while playing in the field. His performance earned him recognition as Northeast Sports Network Man of the Match, with commentators praising his “collegiate level performance.”
McNaughten’s was named to the Capital League First Team and the Vermont All-State team, and was selected to compete in the Vermont Green and Gold Senior Classic on November 9, at Norwich University, where he recorded another shutout with several saves in the second half. His performance positioned him as a potential invitee to the Twin State Lions Cup game.
McNaughten was selected to the Burlington Free Press All-State First Team as goalkeeper, believed to be the first time a Hazen Union or Craftsbury soccer player has earned this distinction.
“Grayson was a great captain, teammate, and student athlete all season,” commented Harry Besett, Hazen Union head coach. “Our tactics were built around his incredible strengths, allowing us to play a high defensive line with him sitting above the penalty box. His speed and decision-making led him to average 4-5 clearances per game, preventing meaningful attacks from our opponents. Grayson flying through the air to claw balls destined for the corners was a regular part of our defensive solidity. Grayson is a very mature and talented young man deserving of the accolades he has been receiving!”
Raymonda Parchment is a Hardwick Gazette reporter. She recently graduated from Vermont State University - Castleton with a Bachelor’s Degree in English. She is a strong supporter of freedom of speech, and the right to publish information, opinions, and ideas without censorship or restraint. She is a lifelong lover of the written word, and is excited to join the team as a staff member.
