Central College Athletics

Payton Rogers
Moravia, Iowa
Class of 2021

Why did you choose Central?

Central felt like home the moment I stepped foot on campus. The small community reminded me of home and the passion and care the professors have for students is unmatched. Also, Coach Briggs made Central feel like home when recruiting me and I knew this is where I wanted to be.

Favorite professor and why?

Jon Witt--I’ve never met someone so passionate about their job and his passion for his students drives me to do my best.

You’re majoring in sociology because...

I started out as biology and soon realized that is not what I wanted to do. After taking principles of sociology with Jon Witt, I found something I was truly interested in that still allowed me to follow the pre-nursing track. 

Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?

I am in SAAC and Student Support Services

Who are your go-to musical artists?

Bigggggg Sam Hunt fan

How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?

Playing sports at Central has allowed me to continue playing the game I love while also introducing me to teammates who have turned into family.

What’s the best Halloween costume you’ve ever had?

When I was in first grade I was Spiderman or this year I dressed up as Maci Gambell’s dad who is a UPS driver, it’s a toss up with which I’m more proud of.

Favorite movie?

The Last Song or Safe Haven-- I’m a sucker for tear jerker

Teammate who belongs on the Bachelorette

Makenzie Kruse hands down

If you could be a cartoon character, who would you be?

Mulan from the OG disney movie

Favorite TV Show

Last Man Standing

What’s it like to play for Coach Steinkamp?

Coach Steinkamp’s first year as head coach was my freshman year, so going through this journey together has been fun. There have been a lot of great moments our team has endured and we’ve been through some hard times, but he’s believed in all of our abilities since the beginning, and it’s just really encouraging that no matter what happens, he’s always pushing us to be better.

What’s your favorite part about being a member of the Central women’s basketball team?

The friends I have made for sure. These girls are my best friends, and I couldn’t imagine playing college ball without them by my side.

What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?

I hope to be a pediatric nurse working in a children’s hospital living somewhere in North Carolina with my own family.

Favorite food from Central Market 

popcorn chicken Sunday bar

Bucket list
-travel the world
-go on a missions trip
-Be the cool mom that hosts all the after school activities
-design a house