Payton Ahola '20 Recruiting Profile

In my family, academics come first, sports and other extracurriculars second.  For me, a strong academic school is my first priority, but the opportunity to play field hockey is a close (very close) second.  I want a diverse college experience that provides the opportunity to explore many fields of study, to play the sport I love and am passionate about and to develop new interests.  I want to not only play field hockey but also make a positive contribution to the success of my team, so it is more important for me to go somewhere that realistically fits my skill level and academic criteria, rather than to go to the very top ranked Division I team.   

I am fortunate that I enjoy school and I am naturally smart and curious.   I do very well in all of my subjects.  I work very hard and care a ton about doing the best that I can - that goes for school, field hockey, lacrosse, community service and everything else I do.  I am extremely organized and disciplined, which helps with time management-I will always be able to handle my school and team commitments.

I was a competitive gymnast when I was younger.  On my tenth birthday, I was practicing my level 7 bar routine and peeled off the high bar doing a giant.  I broke and dislocated both of my elbows.  I spent three nights at Children’s Hospital Boston, and had a total of 3 surgeries.  Twelve weeks later I competed at the State Championships, and I placed on vault and floor.  I am mentally and physically as tough as anyone I know.   The discipline and determination I needed to come back from those injuries are still with me, and this will make me an asset to any team.      

I demand excellence from myself - nothing less is acceptable, so I am always trying to improve my game.  I am very coachable - I want to know what you see and think and how I can improve - tell me and I will do it - always.  I am determined to reach my full potential - playing field hockey and generally.  

Although I am competitive, I always play within the bounds of good sportsmanship.  My play and my attitude on the field is a reflection of who I am personally, as well as a reflection on my parents, my coaches, my teammates, my town and my school.  I also know that I am responsible for the perception of myself and my team off the field as well and I conduct myself accordingly.

Finally, I am a leader - I am never afraid to take the initiative in a team setting, without being bossy or pushy.  I will always push my teammates to improve the team's level of play.