Jacob Payton's Playbook for Success
Meet Jacob Payton, a 17-year-old STM Cougar who shares how hard work, teamwork, and perseverance have shaped his high school journey.
Name: Jacob Payton
Age: 17
School: St. Thomas More Catholic High School
Activity: Football
What is the sport/activity? What position? How long have you participated?
My sport is football. I play defensive back/cornerback. I've played all 4 years of high school, but I started flag football when I was 7 years old. I switched to tackle football in 8th grade at St. Pius Elementary School.
What team do you play on and where do you normally practice/play?
I am on the STM Cougars football team and we practice/play at the STM Cougar Stadium.
Have you traveled anywhere related to this activity?
I have traveled to several high schools over the past 3 years when STM played away games. I've also traveled twice to New Orleans when STM played in and won the state championship in 2022 and 2023.
What events have you participated in?
As an STM football player, I've participated in strenuous summer workouts and strength training/conditioning. The STM football team also has annual lift-a-thons which I've participated in. In addition, the STM football team participates each year in a canned food drive to benefit those in need.
Have you won any awards/honors?
As a senior football player, I was named a Silver Cougar. This honor is given to those who excelled in numerous physical strength and agility tests. I was also named an All-Academic Scholar Athlete by the Louisiana High School Athletic Association for maintaining above a 3.5 GPA during my 4 years of high school.
What have you learned from this activity?
The STM football program has taught me hard work and perseverance on and off the field. I've learned how to stay committed to a goal even through adversity. This program is so much more than just football.
What do you like the most about this activity?
I enjoy being a part of such a great team with many of my friends; some I've known since elementary school and many more I've made along the way.
Do you have a favorite moment?
My proudest moment is being named Silver Cougar because I set that goal for myself and worked hard to achieve it.
What's one tip you would give to someone looking to get into this activity?
Stay committed through the hard work and it will pay off!