Community Corner

Star Student Athlete: East Meadow's Peyton Lives And Breathes Soccer

We all know athletes who shine whether they're competing or not. Let's help share these amazing stories!

East Meadow's Peyton is a star student athlete.
East Meadow's Peyton is a star student athlete. (Courtesy Christine Chester)

EAST MEADOW, NY — We all know student athletes who also bring their A-game to other parts of their lives.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. We’re working to let all your neighbors know the individual stories behind the leaderboard.

This submission comes from Christine Chester who nominated Peyton, of East Meadow.

What sport does the star student athlete play?

Soccer

Why do you believe the star student athlete should be recognized?

She is currently 13 years old and has been playing soccer since she was three. She was put on the second team, when all of her friends were moved up to the first team when she was 9. She worked very hard for the next few years, becoming a better player and earning a spot as captain on her travel team for three years running. Despite coming from a divorced household and having to remember all of her equipment and uniform when she’s going back-and-forth between both of her parents houses, she is always the first one on the field and always prepared, and over-prepared most times. She always encourages other players, and is the first to offer a congratulations or a hug when needed. She spent several years playing on multiple teams and doing back-to-back practices. She played up five years and played in a college showcase at the age of 12. She has now worked her way up to the ECNL regional team for her club, where she is a starter and can effectively play any field position. Her dedication extends beyond the field, to structuring her meal times around her practice schedule, watching and re-watching game footage to improve her game, and sending lists of tips to teammates for upcoming games based on the opponent’s last game.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the star student athlete?

She’s extremely dedicated.

Keep up the great work, Peyton!

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