Andrew Han is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Highland High School for AZPreps365.com

Grady Crandall, one of two Crandalls playing for the Hawks, is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints offers its members an option to serve a two-year mission to invite others to come to Christ. With Crandall’s eyes set on college football, the possibility of a mission is slim. 

Crandall’s performance on the field has brought him opportunities for the next level, receiving offers to continue his journey on the collegiate level. He has received offers from Augustana, a Division II school in South Dakota, and other Division I universities.

But he is already publicly promoting his values and his support for Teen Lifeline, a teen suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention service, though his social media videos.

Crandall said talking about your struggles should be the “norm,” as it will allow people to help you.

“If you’re struggling in life, it’s kind of hard to focus on other things," Crandall said. "But the more that you talk about it, the more you realize that there are people who are there for you and love you."

Being part of the LDS community, Crandall said his faith has largely influenced him. 

“I always trust the Lord above, I’m always one of the last ones praying,” he said. “I don’t do it for the clout; just keeping the faith strong. All of us boys throughout the week are hosting Bible studies and building our mental strength.”

Grady’s mom, Penny Crandall, said Grady's faith has shaped him as a person. 

“He is kind and thoughtful to others," Penny Crandall said. "Is he obnoxious, loud and fun? Yes, but he really just has a really good heart and loves everyone.”

Grady’s father, Jeff Crandall, said he admires Grady’s appreciation for his Savior as well as the camaraderie shown amongst his peers.

“I always told him from a young age, if you want to be the most popular kid in school, then you’d be nice to everybody,” Jeff Crandall said. “It doesn’t matter if they are jocks or in the band in other extracurriculars. If you are nice to everybody, they’ll like you.”

Karlee Crandall, Grady’s older sister, said Grady has always had a competitive edge.

"When he was little, if he didn’t win a game, you did not want to be around him,” Karlee Crandall said. “Growing up with him, he’s just loud. The life of the party and overall a fun person to be around.”

She added that Grady is constantly around a supportive setting, whether it’s at a game cheering him on or sending highlights in the family group chat. 

“I think just watching him after he has a good play, just how hyped he gets, that just makes me so happy seeing him like that,” Karlee Crandall said.