Payton '26

Major: Health and Exercise Science

Minor: Sport Management 

Orange Trivia: Has been the Syracuse Athletic Advisory Committee (SAAC) president, the Syracuse SAAC ACC representative and on the Senate's ad hoc committee for the future of college athletics..

“To be Orange is to be proud you are a part of a legacy that continues to build greatness.” 

 

Describe your Syracuse experience so far.

My Syracuse experience has been rewarding yet competitive. The acceptance I felt within my team and my college has made for a fulfilling time on campus. Syracuse has allowed me to become the best version of myself through the support provided, while also challenging me to strive for more.

 

How has being a student-athlete prepared you for your future after Syracuse?

Being a student-athlete at Syracuse has prepared me to approach life after athletics by instilling a work ethic that I could not have found elsewhere. The skills I have developed and practices I have refined during my time at Syracuse will allow me to optimize my work efficiency and ensure I am constantly astute. Aside from the amazing framework Syracuse has provided, the opportunity to build a substantial network of resources through alumni associations, teammates, coaches and donors has also prepared me for a future after Syracuse.

 

Why did you choose to attend and compete for Syracuse?

I decided to attend Syracuse because I felt a deep connection to the natural beauty of the campus. The reputation of becoming Orange was enticing, and receiving an equally prestigious education helped shape my decision. The decision to compete for Syracuse was not difficult after learning about the rich history of the rowing team and getting the opportunity to be part of one of the country's top-rated rowing programs.

 

What makes your team so special?

Unlike any other team I have been part of, the Syracuse men's rowing team has this unwavering ability to make every athlete feel valued, accepted and motivated. The culture that has been established for generations of rowers continues to be carried with dignity and respect. Our team operates with a high level of focus and maturity, which enables us to maintain both high quality and morale. The camaraderie between my teammates and me makes showing up and putting in the work much more enjoyable.

 

What has been your favorite Syracuse experience so far?

My favorite experience at Syracuse so far was the 2025 IRA regatta when the team qualified all four of our boats in the grand finals. This is the first time since 1976 that we qualified three boats, and the first time in program history that we qualified four boats. It was a tremendous achievement for the program, demonstrating the hurdles we overcame throughout the season, as well as our trust in and commitment to our coaches.

 

How has donor, alumni and fan support impacted your time at Syracuse? 

Rowing is a sport embedded in history. The importance of preserving legacy and driving competitiveness is crucial, but it would not be possible without the support we receive from donors, alumni and fans. We are extremely grateful for our donors, as they are the ones who allow us to race and train in the newest equipment and keep the program in a comfortable position. Most donors are alumni who love our alma mater, and seeing their time, effort and investment in the new generation reinforces the drive to enhance current oarsmen's time at Syracuse. We couldn’t be more grateful to have alumni come by and share their experiences, as it demonstrates that in the end, we are all Orange and will do anything to support our crew.

 

Return Home   Give Now