By Daniel Garin-Vila, Staff Writer

Football

After a tough loss to Rochelle in the state playoffs last year, the Grizzlies made a comeback. Led by senior captains Charlie Newton, Simon Shwartz, Steveon Bynum, and Kyle Osterman, the 2022 football team put up an impressive record, with 8 wins and 3 losses. Though suffering rough losses to DePaul and Lincoln Park, Payton remained undefeated for the remainder of the regular season, bringing yet another conference championship home. Overcoming deficits of up to 21-0 and stringing together countless victories, they seemed set for a historic playoff result. The Grizzlies proceeded to completely obliterate ITW David Speer Academy 42-0 in the first round to be the first team in school history to win a state playoff game.

The season in one word: Transformative

Girls volleyball

After a rough season last year, girls varsity volleyball improved immensely. Since the start of the school year, volleyball has packed gyms with an absolutely electric season and an amazing finish as third in the city playoffs and a victory over notable opponent Lane Tech. The girls finished 21-16 overall with an incredible 10-1 home record. The team was supported with amazing senior leadership from captains Gabby Scholtes, who set a new school record with 300 assists, Ellie Flukerson, Kat Lazos, as well as a star-studded junior lineup, including Chloe Jackson who set a new school record of 200 kills.

One word to sum up this historic season: Spectacular

Boys soccer

The boys varsity soccer team fought hard this season, finishing with a 9-11-1 record. Although suffering some close losses, the team stayed together and was motivated to do well. At some point during the season, the squad began to click and the team managed to rally all the way to the regional finals. The boys then finished the job to win the IHSA Regional Championship, a truly inspiring result. Senior Carlos Pichardo recounted the great memories with the team and how amazing it was to win the regional championship. The team also looks to the future as the graduating seniors have affirmed their faith in the younger classes to continue winning championships.

The season in one word: Rollercoaster

Girls flag football

It was exciting news when a new sport was introduced to Payton. Early in May of this year, it was announced that Girls Flag Football would be coming to Payton. After a rough start to the season, they capitalized on their potential and fought hard in the playoffs. The astounding progress they made leaves all of us with high hopes for next season.

The season in one word: Progress

Boys golf

The boys golf team came to play this year. With a loaded lineup and a point to prove, they didn’t disappoint. They started the seasons with confident wins against key rivals and were poised for a championship run. Star seniors like Avi Jerath rallied the team and underclassmen showed up to destroy the competition at the city championship, winning with a team record of 309. They proceeded to finish  2nd place (a record) at regionals and completed the season with a strong sectionals finish. At season’s end they boasted the teams first undefeated record in 8 years and multiple trophies to hoist.

The season in one word: Dominance

Girls golf

The girls golf team also had a fun season. The team had a strong performance, finishing 4th in the city championships and junior Chloe Guizik had an especially impressive performance shooting under 50. The team continues to progress and there are high hopes for next year.

The season in one word: Exhilarating

Girls tennis

After a strong performance last year, including a historic fourth place state finish from senior Maya Jha, the team hoped to once again produce good results. After a solid season all round, they geared up for a competitive city championship. Through close matches and absolute nail biters, Payton secured first place for the team; a truly remarkable result.

The season in one word: Memorable

Girls cross country

Girls Cross Country had yet again an astounding season. After making great memories throughout the season, including a trip to Indiana, they placed 4th in the city and 8th in sectionals! Many athletes set personal records and consistent placements while creating new bonds with teammates. Standout performers include seniors Veronica Fuller and Josephine Dziedzic.

The season in one word: Exciting

Boys cross country

With the team continuing to progress and upperclassmen studs guiding the young core, Boys Cross Country was in fine form. The team commanded strong performances throughout the year, with many setting personal records and picking up podiums left, right, and center. The real climax of the season came during the state competition, where the team rallied to place a best ever 6th place. Notable performances include senior Ritvik Viniak who placed a stunning 9th with a handful of personal records.

The season in one word: Amazing

16-Inch softball

16-inch softball had another solid season this year. The team’s astounding performance was supported by their strong senior leadership. Seniors such as Max Mcnamara made history with the first home run at Payton’s home field. This aided the team in making another deep playoff run all the way to the semi-finals at city playoffs.

The season in one word: Goated

Cheer

The cheer team had a season to remember! Senior Julia Kaiser recounts how the team continues to unite and put in effort while seeing very good returns. The team rallied the crowd at many of Payton’s sports games and specifically brought remarkable energy to Payton’s tackle football games. There were many great performances and many amazing individual feats.

The season in one word: Rewarding   

Girls swimming

Payton’s girls swimming team produced another solid year of results. Opening the season with a solid 9th at Hershey Jamboree, they then beat rivals Northside College Prep. At Windy City relays, varsity was able to take second place with a strong performance. Another memorable part of the season was when the freshman/sophomore team beat rivals Lane Tech. The girls varsity team wrapped up their impressive campaign with a convincing 3rd place finish at the City Championship.

The season in one word: Thrilling