For Whitworth first-year Peyton Green, lacrosse is more than a sport — it’s a defining part of who she is. Coming into college as a first-year student athlete, Green is already navigating the balance between competition and academics with maturity and grace.
“Being a student athlete, I feel like it means a lot to me,” said Green, “It is part of my identity for sure. I don’t think I could just be a student. Does that make sense?”
Originally from a background that values both education and athletics, Green’s transition to college sports hasn’t been without challenges. “Honestly, I think because it’s my freshman year, especially, just dealing with the amount of work we have to do — it’s very hard on my body,” said Green, “But I mean, I’m pushing through it. I’m getting there.”
Time management is crucial for Green, and she credits her coaches and teammates for helping keep her on track. “My coach is definitely on me and checks my grades, so I think I have some outside pressure,” Green said, “And I don’t know, my team’s very… they care about their education, so it pushes me to care about mine too.”
Green believes her performance on the field influences how she feels off it. “When I perform well within my sport, it translates to everything in my life,” she explained, “So I think when I’m doing well in lacrosse, I’m also going to do well in school.”
Beyond discipline and scheduling, Green also reflects on the community that comes with being part of a team. “I think we get a lot of privileges, honestly,” she said, “And I think the community that’s built within sports, too, has influenced the whole college experience.”
When it comes to handling stress, Green turns to both her sport and her faith. “The way I deal with pressure academically is with sports,” said Green, “And then with sports, I think that’s a work in progress. I try my best to give it to God, honestly.”
Discipline also plays a central role in maintaining that balance. “If I don’t get good enough grades, I can’t play,” Green stated simply, “So obviously, that’s a big impact.”
Looking at the bigger picture helps her stay grounded when setbacks arise. “Just take it day by day,” she said, “Keep pushing.”
Green’s support system is also an essential part of her journey. “My dad definitely helps a lot with that,” shared Green, “He keeps saying, ‘You’re here for school, and then sports.’ That’s something he’s engraved in my mind for sure.”
And for any future college athletes preparing to take on this dual commitment, Green’s advice is heartfelt and clear: “Just enjoy it,” says Green, “It’s a blessing to be able to do both.”
As Green finishes her first year of collegiate play with Whitworth, she is learning what it means to balance ambition with self-care. In doing so, she’s setting the tone for her years ahead with the Whitworth lacrosse program.
