By Bryce McKinnis
The Grimett family has become a staple of Claremore High School football.
Tyson, a two-way star for the Zebras, is just the latest Grimett to grace Lantow Field with his talents.
“My dad [Curkey] went and played college football at NEO, my oldest brother [Noah] played all through high school and is now the OC here at Claremore and my other brother [Ethan] is currently playing football at Friends University,” Grimett said. “So, yes, football is a big deal in my family.”
Grimett’s play was inspiring last year as he rushed for over 500 yards and nine touchdowns and made 73 tackles at linebacker. The Zebras finished 11-2, a six-game improvement from 2022, and made the state semifinals for the first time in 40 years.
“Tyson stepped up last year when we had some injuries at running back,” Claremore head coach Jarrett Hurt said. “We rode him down the stretch and he led us to the semifinals. Tyson started at running back and at inside linebacker during the last half of the season and during the playoffs.”
Grimett’s elation to see fans show up in droves to support the Zebras can best be attributed to his roots in Claremore football.
“Growing up and going to my brother’s games I remember the community support and the stands being packed out for games and to be getting that same support and being able to play in front of that crowd like they did means a lot,” Grimett said. “I took a lot of pride in it, being a part of that experience was fun, and it makes me want to go back and hopefully go further, so I’m hoping this year, we can repeat some of the things that team did last year.”
Grimett still credits the lessons he learned from his father and brothers for his development as a player.
“Besides him teaching me how to play football, I’d say the mental toughness of the game. He’s held me and my brother to high standards and is always pushing us to be better every day,” Grimett said. “My oldest brother being a offensive coordinator has taught me the thinking part of the game and being able to read what teams are doing and how to react, and then my other brother that plays defensive line in college has taught me different moves and techniques to get off blockers and has helped me elevate my game on the defensive side.”
There’s nothing quite like your own brother’s voice shouting at you from the sideline, but the Grimett’s make it work on Friday nights.
“I’d say he’s harder on me,” Grimett said. “But also, he has a lot of trust in me when I’m on the field.”
In addition to his goals for team success this year, Grimett hopes to rake more offers this season. He already has an offer from Hendrix University in Conway, Arkansas.
“I’m fortunate enough to have already received a scholarship to play football at the next level, so my dreams are starting to be achieved,” Grimett said. “I’m still waiting and won’t commit to anywhere until after the season most likely.”
