05/11/2026
Our next Senior Salute is to Brayden Gaines. Brayden might have been our most physical and consistent player on defense, with a knack for goal line situations on both sides of the ball. On field highlights included goal line scores against West Des Moines Valley and Ankeny as well as some of the best defensive plays weāve seen in the clubās short history, including try saving tackles that forced knock-ons against Ankeny and Des Moines Roosevelt this year (the latter a crucial stop to help win the match), and a chase down and diving tackle at last yearās state tournament against Ankeny. Brayden is as easy going off the field as he is fearsome on it, and always showed dedication while maintaining a sense of humor. His favorite rugby memory is being competitive against the very top teams in the state, and he plans on attending college at Kirkwood next year. Thanks for helping take J-Hawk Rugby to new heights, Brayden Gaines!