In recognition of Black History Month, App State Athletics is featuring different student-athletes and the people that came before them that made them who they are today. Today's feature is on
Peighton Simmons, a senior on the track & field team.
Who was your role model growing up?
Growing up, my role model was Florence Griffith Joyner. From Flo-Jo, I learned that women in sports can appear to be dainty, can do their makeup, can have their nails all while blazing down the track and past their competitors. Because of Flo-Jo, I hold the mentality that "when you look good, you compete good." My hair is always done, my makeup is always on point, and my nails are always fresh for EVERY track meet.
Who would you consider a trailblazer in your sport, either here at App State or nationally?
Here at App State, I consider the triple jump record holder Ronda White to be a trailblazer in my sport (more specifically my event: triple jump). Nationally, I consider Wilma Rudolph to be a trailblazer in my sport.
What did you learn from that trailblazer?
From Ronda, I learned that being at a smaller school doesn't mean you can't make an impact. A strong work ethic, great coaching, and a passion to be the best can take you places you could've never imagined. From Wilma, I learned that "when they think you can't, show em' how it's done." Wilma was physically disabled for most of her childhood years but still managed to become the first American woman to win three gold medals in an Olympic Games. As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Wilma paved the way for her athletic Sorors (like me); showing that you can have the beauty, brains, and bronze simultaneously. That sheer will and determination can make you unstoppable.
What impact do you hope to leave here that could help benefit future generations?
As a very small-framed individual, being 5'11 and weighing only 115 lbs., I hope to leave the ideology that you don't have to be the biggest or the strongest to be the best. I hope future generations can learn from me that the greats come in all shapes and sizes; body positivity is everything!
How has your family influenced your athletic career?
I come from a family of athletes; basketball, volleyball, football, cheerleading, baseball, etc. The one common theme among my entire family: we all ran track at some point or another. It was pretty much known since birth that I was going to run track. My family has influenced my athletic career by believing in me, even when I didn't believe in myself. Triple jump is one of the most technical events and at times it can be discouraging. My family has been right there by my side every step of the way, never letting me give up on myself, and never wavering on support. Their faith in me is part of the reason why I never settle, why I go to jump practice giving 100% every day, and why I go to every track meet with the mentality that I can and will be the best.
