Kelly Grayum has been named head coach of Liberty Bell High School’s girls’ soccer program, bringing a blend of playing experience and coaching pedigree that spans youth leagues in the Methow Valley and a collegiate career at Western Washington University. Before stepping onto the sidelines, Grayum earned semi‑professional minutes in an exhibition match with the Seattle Sounders, giving him a nuanced understanding of the game at its highest level.
A Coach With Proven Experience
The team is in a rebuilding phase after the departure of key seniors such as Marit Nelson, Olive Frady, Audrey Roman, Lucy Collier and Lilly Belcher, leaving 14 of the 22 roster spots to freshmen and sophomores. Yet the roster retains several standout talents, including junior center midfielder Anya Merkens, who has become a role model for her positive attitude and technical skill, and seniors Elaine Walker and Adelina Humling, who are expected to spearhead the offense with passion and game savvy. Taylor Hover, a senior new to soccer but bringing leadership from basketball and track, has already injected energy into the squad.
Defensively, experienced players Clara Ramsey-George and Wylie Smith will anchor the back line, focusing on ball progression and maintaining shape, while two younger goalkeepers, Lucia Troyer and Caleigh Buzzard, will support the defense despite limited varsity experience. Clara Ramsey-George, who is recovering from an elbow‑upper arm injury, is slated to contribute through conditioning and leadership rather than regular playing time.
Grayum’s philosophy emphasizes teamwork, skill development and a positive mentality, and the Mountain Lions will adopt an aggressive, attacking style that seeks to create chances early and press forward. The squad’s first tests come on the road against Skagit County’s La Conner and Whatcom County’s Blaine, before hosting the Tonasket Tigers in their inaugural home match on September 15.