In the heart of Newton, a new chapter begins for Peyton Ray, a senior at Newton High School, who recently made a significant decision about her athletic and academic future. On a crisp Wednesday morning, surrounded by her supportive family—her father Chad, sister Lillie, and mother Amy—Peyton signed her commitment papers to join the Simpson College women's cross country and track and field teams.
This decision came after Peyton weighed her options carefully, including a tempting opportunity to join a triathlon team at Central College and an offer to swim for Simpson. However, after several visits to Simpson College, where she met with the swim and track coaches, the choice became clear. "Simpson just stuck out to me," Peyton explained. "I like their campus; the facilities are top-notch, and both the faculty and coaches made me feel like they were genuinely excited to be a part of my journey."
Peyton has been a swimmer since she was five and has qualified for the state meet yearly during high school. Despite her success in swimming, she felt it was time to explore new challenges. "It’s kind of weird, but if I didn’t swim, I would do cross country in the fall," she shared, reflecting on her long-standing passion for athletics.
Rachelle Tipton, Newton's head girls' track and field coach and a former NCAA Division III athlete, sees great potential in Peyton. "It’s an extra step up from the training she’s used to," Tipton noted, emphasizing the increased mileage and commitment required at the college level. "But Peyton is always striving to do her best. You can see the determination on her face if she doesn’t achieve the time she wants—she’s driven to improve next time and is an incredible teammate."
Looking ahead, Peyton plans to major in accounting, which promises to offer her as many challenges and opportunities for growth as her athletic pursuits. Her story is a testament to the power of dedication and the importance of finding the right fit, both academically and athletically. As she prepares to take her talents to Simpson College, Peyton Ray leaves a legacy at Newton High School and steps forward into a future brimming with potential.
Who recently signed with Simpson College's women's cross country and track and field teams?
Newton senior Peyton Ray signed with the Simpson College women's cross country and track and field teams.
What was Peyton Ray's alternative offer for college sports?
Peyton Ray had an opportunity to participate in a triathlon at Central College and a chance to swim for Simpson College.
What did Peyton Ray say about her visits to Simpson College?
Peyton Ray mentioned that she visited Simpson College three times and was impressed by the nice campus, the facilities, the faculty, and the coaches' enthusiasm.
What sport did Peyton Ray compete in during the fall before signing with Simpson College?
Peyton Ray was a swimmer in the fall and qualified for the state meet all four high school years.
What will Peyton Ray major in at Simpson College?
Peyton Ray plans to major in accounting at Simpson College.
#CollegeAthletics #StudentAthlete
Source: https://www.newtondailynews.com/sports/local-sports/2025/01/16/newtons-ray-signs-with-simpson-college-running-teams/
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