Junior places sixth at State Diving Championship

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Lily Oelschlager

Peyton Thurman places sixth in the state for diving

Junior Peyton Thurman placed sixth in the OHSAA Division II State Diving Meet on February 24th in Canton, Ohio.
Thurman, Revere’s only diver, explained her path to states.

“I qualified for states using an 11 dive meet score [at districts]; districts [qualifies] the top six girls for states,” Thurman said.

Many factors influence a dive’s score, including accuracy and the attempted dive’s degree of difficulty.
Thurman practices year-round to prepare for competitions like states.

“In the lead-up to states, I was diving six to seven times a week. During the high school season, I practice [both] with a club team and other high schools in the area; diving is a small sport,” Thurman said.

Thurman discussed her mindset heading into states.

“[I felt] confident, but a bit nervous; there’s pressure, and a lot of people [are] rooting for you,” Thurman said.
Her mother, Meagan Thurman, also spoke on her daughter’s accomplishments.

“Peyton had set a goal of top ten at states this year; sixth place is phenomenal, but to me, she could have come in 16th place and I would be just as excited and proud of her. Every single time she gets up on that board [it’s] a proud moment for me. . . Her mental fortitude and talent blows me away,” Thurman said.

Flynn Cowie, a member of Revere’s swim team also praised Peyton’s dedication to diving.

“The cause of [her] success is obviously [her] hard work and determination,” Cowie said.

He also discussed Peyton’s unique position as Revere’s only diver.

“The Revere swim team practices at the [Akron General Health and] Wellness Center, which doesn’t have a pool big enough for divers, [as a result], we really only get to see Peyton at invitationals [which is] always a special occasion,” Cowie said.

Thurman hopes to continue her diving career in college.

“I’m talking with a lot of colleges right now,” Thurman said.
Meagan Thurman added her thoughts on Peyton diving in college.
“Peyton’s college recruiting process is going very well. She has spoken to some great schools and been invited to their virtual “Junior Days.” Since states, her inbox from colleges interested in her has gotten pretty busy,” Thurman said.

She also expressed pride in her daughter’s character.

“Peyton is very humble in her achievements. She has had many, but all she really wants to do is her very best and bring in points for her swim and dive teammates,” Thurman said.
When asked about her pre-states clap-out, Peyton Thurman expressed gratitude for Revere’s support.

“It’s a great adrenaline rush, with the drums, walking around the school, seeing everyone supporting you. I’m proud to represent Revere,” Thurman said.