Kray Leininger, Hamilton Heights’ senior, has signed a letter of intent to play football for the Franklin College Grizzlies in Franklin, Indiana this fall. Franklin College is a member of the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC). He is the son of Brent and Leslie Leininger.
“I chose Franklin College because of the support, academics, positive atmosphere, and great coaching staff,” said Kray Leininger, who plans to earn a double major in Entrepreneurship/Marketing and minor in Finance with the goal of owning his own business.
A two-sport athlete, Leininger found success on the field and on the court as a varsity member of Hamilton Heights football (three years) and basketball (two years) teams. He led the football team in tackles in 2017 and 2018; served as the 2018 Team Captain, named Defensive Player of the Year, and received the Big Hit Award. In addition, he was named to the 2018 All-Conference Team and All County First Team Defense.
Leininger got his start in organized sports beginning at age four with the Little Huskies football and basketball program. He developed his skills through practice, specialty camps, travel teams and spending time with coaching staff. He credits his family and all his coaches over the years for helping him to develop into a strong student athlete and helping to lead the way for the opportunity to take his game to the collegiate level.
Leininger, who always puts his family first, is a 10-year member of the 4-H, a member of the Hamilton Heights Business Professionals of America (BPA) Club, and works with the Bus Ministry in Tipton, Indiana.
“Kray has been a part of the Husky football program for four seasons,” said Jon Kirschner, Hamilton Heights Head Football Coach. “The past three seasons Kray played a staple role on the defensive side of the ball leading the team in tackles during his junior and senior year. This past season Kray also had to transition to offensive line where he was needed which is a testament as to why he was chosen as a captain this fall by his peers. Kray has a strong work ethic which allowed to him to find success on and off the field. His work ethic will bring him nothing but success in college. The Husky Football program wishes him nothing but the best at Franklin College.
“Kray has been fun to watch the past four years on the football field and the basketball court,” said Kurt Ogden, Hamilton Heights Athletic Director. “His work ethic is unmatched and his leadership in both sports hasn’t gone unnoticed. Franklin College is getting a player who will not be out-worked while bringing out the best in his teammates. What more could they ask for?! We wish him the best of luck at the next level.”
Hamilton Heights senior Kray Leininger has signed a letter of intent to play football for the Franklin College Grizzlies in Franklin, Indiana this fall. Leininger (seated) is pictured with his mother Leslie, brother Cole, and father, Brent. (Photo courtesy Hamilton Heights High School)