MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake Mavericks’ Brayden Kast signed his letter of intent Friday to play football and pursue a business major with Eastern Oregon University in La Grande, Ore. 

“They gave me an opportunity and they showed that they wanted me,” he said. “I want to go and compete, and that program competes. They play to win.” 

His parents, Stevie and Brian Kast, said when they went to the school to meet with the coaches, the atmosphere was welcoming and a great fit for their son in both athletics and in academics. Eastern Oregon’s reputation for its business programs especially aligned well with his desire to become a business major, they said. 

“He is dedicated and hardworking; he does what he needs to do to make it happen,” Stevie said. 

“He does the right thing even when nobody’s paying attention,” Brian said.  

He’s going to go on and do bigger and better things, so we’re excited.”

Brayden said his time at Moses Lake High School has been the best years of his life. Without his experiences there, he’s not sure he’d be in as good of a spot as he is now. 

“It taught me everything, taught me discipline, taught me how to play football, how to use my body, how to get my body stronger,” he said. “Coach (Brett) Jay really helped me out. Without him I don’t know where I’d be, and without the program, I don’t know where I’d be either.” 

Kast was a three-year starter for the Mavs making first team all-conference two years and became the Lineman of the Year in the Big Nine last year, said Mavs head football coach Brett Jay. 

“He’s one of the hardest working players I’ve ever coached (in) 17 years of doing this,” said Jay. “He made himself into a college football player.”  

Jay said Kast is a perfect example of what the football program at Moses Lake High School is about. They always start off looking for athletes with strong character and Kast showed integrity and a solid work ethic daily, even putting in work during the offseason. 

“We’re going to miss him, but he’s definitely paved the way for the next group,” said Jay. “We’re grateful that we got to coach a player like him and we’re all better because of it.” 

Assistant football coach Greg Rathbun said the moment Kast walked onto the field in his first year as a freshman, he became a foundational piece for the team. 

“He loved to play the game; (we) always got full effort out of (him),” said Rathbun. “I know what the mountaineers are getting, mountaineer coaches, the mountaineer community – they’re getting a great person.” 

Kast said he looks forward to finding a career in business and continuing to improve his athletic abilities at EOU. 

“I just hope to play. I want to get over there, and I want to play as soon as possible. I want to play for as long as I can at a high level,” he said. “I just want to continue getting better.” 

    Brayden Kast, right, hustles during a practice in preparation for the 2023 football season. His coaches said he is known for his work ethic and dedication.
  

    Brayden Kast’s family came to celebrate his accomplishments as he moves on to the next step in his academic and athletic career.
  

    Brayden Kast (60) defends his teammate in November 2023. Kast has been a foundational member of the team since his first year playing for the Mavs, his coaches said.