The St. Mary’s Star Sophomore Receiver: Osani Gayles

Osani Gayles is a 4 Star recruit who plays Wide Receiver at St. Mary’s High School. Gayles is ranked as the 82nd best recruit in the class of 2027 and is ranked as a top 10 Wide Receiver in the class as well. In addition, Gayles is listed as a top 15 recruit in the state of California and is listed as the #2 Wide Receiver in the state of California. He holds offers from schools such as Penn State, Oregon and Tennessee.

Who are some role models in your life?

My role models are definitely my parents. They’ve always supported me and pushed me to be the best version of myself, both on and off the field. Football-wise, l’ve always looked up to guys like Tyreek Hill for their work ethic and leadership.

What artists do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?

Before games, I usually listen to artists like Drake, J. Cole, and Rod Wave to get me hyped up. Their music gets me in the zone and helps me focus on the game ahead.

What are the strengths of your game?

Speed and agility. I’ve worked really hard to make sure I can read defenses quickly and react in a way that puts me in the best position to succeed. My football IQ is another asset; I pride myself on understanding our playbook and anticipating what the other team will do.

What is your favorite memory of your career?

My favorite memory has to be playing with my brother last year. The feeling of celebrating with him after putting in so much hard work throughout the season was incredible. He’s three years older so we’ve never been on the same team until my first season in high school and his last. That was pretty special.

Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?

The best player l’ve played with was probably my brother, who is going to play football at Harvard this year. His athleticism and knowledge of the game is incredible, and he always pushed everyone else to be better. Our competitiveness was on another level ever since I could remember causing me to go my hardest at every rep. It was a challenge to keep up with him, but it also made me a better player. I see how hard he works in the classroom too, so that’s also important l’d say.

What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?

Stay focused and never get discouraged by setbacks. Be coachable, listen to your coaches and always look for ways to improve. The journey to D1 is challenging, and you’ll face obstacles, but persistence is key. Also, keep your grades up; academics are just as important as your athletic performance.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?

I’d love to go to Korea. My grandma is Korean and she’s told me a lot of great stories about it and I definitely want to visit.

How old were you when you fell in love with the game?

We grew up big Seahawks fans (my parents are from Seattle) and I remember watching that team with Marshawn and the Legion of Boom. I think I was around 6. Then I started playing football and I was hooked.

If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?

Tyreek Hill

What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?

Probably watching Christian McCaffery when he broke the NCAA all purpose yardage record in the PAC 12 championship against USC. I was there watching the game live.