Many Lambert athletes know the level of commitment it takes to manage their sport alongside academics, however Payten Jefferson has taken her dedication for athletics to another level. As a sophomore Jefferson has committed to playing two varsity sports. She knows what it takes to push and mentally motivate herself to dedicate so much time to athletics. Jefferson is involved in girls wrestling and softball, both at the varsity level. She has put in countless hours toward becoming the best she can be and has proven herself time and time again.
Jefferson found a love for softball in middle school and has carried it through her high school years. However, for wrestling, she was influenced by her weight training and PE coaches to pursue it her freshman year. She has found what it takes to do it all at Lambert.
Currently during the winter months, wrestling has been Jefferson’s priority. She has a 30 win and 4 loss record for 2026 and is continuing her season at the GHSA Wrestling State Championships on Feb. 13, 2026. The state championship is the highest rank competition that Lambert wrestlers attend.
“My goal is to win at state and become the best in my age group,” Jefferson states. “I want to do this all 4 years I’m in high school, so I want to start off strong.”
Jefferson is also committed to varsity softball in the fall. She plays as the team’s first baseman with standout 2025-26 season stats, including a .552 batting average, .649 on base percentage, 16 hits and 21 RBIs throughout the season.
Jefferson has learned several invaluable life skills in the process of playing these two demanding sports. She shows dedication by attending daily practices after long school days, which requires impeccable time management skills. Jefferson is able to manage her tight schedule while balancing two seasonal varsity sports.
“I’ve learned how to take criticism,” Jefferson said. “I’m able to build up the mental skills, self skills and use heavy criticism as fuel for strength, with sports and academically.”
Outside of sports, Jefferson has to balance her every day school schedule as well. She participates in competitions with Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) throughout the year and has placed in region and state competitions. She is also currently taking an honors and advanced placement class, and for her junior year she plans on taking more challenging courses. Jefferson says that managing sports with rigorous classes is challenging, however athletics have given her skills and motivation to push through challenges.
“I think I’ve found that I’m actually really tough,” Jefferson said. “I’ve built up these mental skills that I use in everyday life, and I don’t really give myself enough credit for it.”
Ultimately, Payten Jefferson represents Lambert as much as a sophomore student can. Her commitment and dedication to sports shines in her competitions after countless practices, early wake up times and daily weight lifting classes. Jefferson’s motivation carries her team, and drives her passion for clubs and her academics. Overall, Jefferson has gained confidence and skills with sports that she hopes to carry with her through high school and beyond.
