Bold Secure Experienced Midfielder Gray Yates for Upcoming Season

TORONTO — The Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Bold men's soccer team is happy to announce the addition of central midfielder Gray Yates to its 2025-26 recruiting class. 

A transfer from Guelph, Ont., Yates brings a wealth of experience after four seasons with the Guelph Gryphons in OUA competition, where he also served as team captain. In his rookie season with the Gryphons, he was a part of the campaign that won OUA gold in 2021. His standout time with Guelph earned him OUA West All-Star honours in both 2023 and 2024, as well as Team MVP honours in 2024. Off the pitch, Yates also excelled academically, earning U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian status in 2023 and 2024.

Beyond university play, Yates has spent five seasons with Guelph United in League 1 Ontario, where he has continued to refine his skills at the semi-professional level. He was a part of the team that captured the League1 Premier Championship in 2021. He was named Guelph United's Supporters' Player of the Year in 2024 and earned League1 Second Team All-Star recognition in both 2023 and 2024.

A natural leader, the midfielder prides himself on leading by example and maintaining a positive mindset and attitude on the pitch. 

His decision to join TMU was driven by the university's MBA program with a focus in sports business, as well as the strength and potential of the Bold's soccer program. 

"I enjoy the process and journey it takes for a team to reach the top and that is exactly what I believe the TMU team can do this upcoming season," said Yates.

Yates becomes the fourth addition to TMU's 2025-26 recruiting class, one that's shaping up to be a strong contender in OUA competition this season.