By Alyssa Zucker
Staff Writer
As the Mira Costa football season hits its midseason, two names have stood out above the rest. Senior running back Raphael Lawson-Gayle and senior quarterback Khalil McClain have emerged as the prominent offensive players.
McClain and Lawson-Gayle have had explosive senior seasons. The two rely on each other.
“Raphy and Khalil have a strong bond,” Athletic Director and football coach Don Morrow said. “The quarterback can either run the ball or trust that his teammate will be there to catch it. Raphy and Khalil work very well together and trust one another.”
McClain started the season as a safety but took over the quarterback position after starter senior Ryan Sweigart was injured.
“I feel very privileged to be the new quarterback,” McClain said. “It was hard accepting the responsibility, but I already knew most of the plays so it was not too difficult to take on the role.”
McClain did not have an interest in joining the Costa football team until his sophomore year. Toward the end of his sophomore season, he suffered from a concussion, causing him to miss summer practices going into his junior year season. Because of his absence, he spent his junior year on JV as a safety.
“Missing the summer going into junior year was a major setback,” McClain said. “There were some positives, though. I was able to work on the fundamentals and ease my way onto varsity.”
McClain has thrown four touchdowns this season, while Lawson-Gayle had 334 rushing yards against Newport Harbor. He also scored four touchdowns against West.
“I am so happy for the way I have been playing,” Lawson-Gayle said. “I thank God everyday for all he has given me.”
The two inspire the rest of the team with their talent and dedication.
“They are both good athletes,” junior running back Brandon Mills said. “They challenge each other as well as support each other.”
For both of them, their hard work is rewarded every time they take the field for a game.
“The Friday night lights beating down on me, knowing all my hard work paid off is the best feeling,” Lawson-Gayle said.
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