Junior defender Kenna Gray of Ankeny Centennial has verbally committed to play soccer for Minnesota State University in Mankato.
The Mavericks reached the second round of this year’s NCAA Division II tournament before losing to Washburn in penalty kicks. Last year, MSU was the national runner-up.
Former Centennial star Courtney Kovacs completed her collegiate career with the Mavericks last month. Ex-Ankeny standout Kennedy Macke is a junior midfielder on the squad.
“I explored a few colleges, but what I love most about Minnesota State Mankato is the opportunity to continue play for a championship soccer program and pursuing a nursing degree,” said Gray. “The coaching staff and faculty have already been incredibly supportive, and I truly believe it’s the perfect fit for me both athletically and academically. I also wanted a place where my family could attend many of my games, and MSU offers that opportunity.”
Gray has twice earned all-conference honorable mention at Centennial. She started all 21 games last season, helping the Jaguars to a 15-4-2 record and a trip to the Class 3A semifinals.
Gray contributed one goal and one assist. She also played a key role for a defensive unit that posted 13 clean sheets.
Gray will follow in the footsteps of her older siblings. Megan was a standout on Centennial’s state championship team in 2018 who went on to play for Minnesota, while Keaton completed his baseball career at Wartburg College in 2024.
“Watching Meg play soccer at the University of Minnesota and Keaton play baseball at Wartburg College allowed me to see firsthand the commitment and dedication required of student-athletes,” Gray said. “Experiencing that environment through them inspired me, and I’ve always dreamed of having that same experience myself.”