Owasso’s Joey Grabeal
Owasso junior Joey Grabeal has built a reputation as a dependable two-sport standout who embraces every role that helps the Rams win. He splits his time between the diamond and the gridiron, playing catcher along with infield and outfield in baseball, and lining up at outside linebacker, on special teams and as a long snapper in football.
Grabeal said he is most proud of reaching the state championship in both sports and getting on the field in each title game. Those experiences, he said, sharpened his focus and reinforced the value of preparation in pressure moments. “Both of my sports have taught me discipline,” Grabeal said. “I believe this has helped me be a better person.”
That growth has been shaped by people around him at Owasso. Grabeal points to his sophomore English teacher, Mrs. Kannett, as his favorite teacher because she not only teaches well but “takes time to get to know her students and help them as much as possible.” At home, he looks to his dad as his biggest inspiration. “He has always been there for me, and he is a very hard worker,” Grabeal said. “He has worked for everything, and it is truly inspiring.”
Teammate Drew King has also made a lasting impact, leading Grabeal into a relationship with Christ and helping him through tough times on and off the field. Grabeal said he loves “being able to compete at a global, state and national level and represent my high school.” One of the best pieces of advice he has received came from football coach Bill Blankenship’s staff: “What’s next?” The phrase reminds him not to dwell on the last play but to focus on the next step.
Grabeal credits God first, then thanks his coaches and family for supporting his dreams. On the field, he models his catching after former St. Louis Cardinals star Yadier Molina, whom he calls the best to ever play the position because of how well he understands the game.
