VYPE: How did you get into wrestling?

Payton Thomas: My dad has been my coach since I started wrestling at eight years old.

VYPE: What are your personal goals for the year?

PT: To win state and nationals.

VYPE: What is your favorite athletic memory?

PT: Just hanging out with the guys that I grew up with.

VYPE: Along with wrestling, what other activities or sports are you involved in?

PT: National Honor Society, FFA, hunting and fishing.

VYPE: Which teammate has left the biggest impression on you? Why?

PT: All of my teammates have left an impression on my life and my wrestling.

VYPE: How have you used sport to impact your school and/or community?

PT: I have used my wrestling to slingshot me into a leadership role.

VYPE: Who is your favorite teacher (from any year) and why?

PT: My favorite teacher would have to be my coach, Robert Washington.

VYPE: You can pick any place for a summer vacation. Where do you go and who do you take with you?

PT: I would like to take my team to the beaches of Florida.