Waiting for His Time: Peyton Egan

SEATTLE- As junior Peyton Egan lifts the 3A state trophy for the second year in a row, he thinks about how sweet it would be to hold the trophy one last time in an O’Dea uniform.

Eight months later, the former first-team All-Metro safety is currently sidelined for the first six weeks of the season, waiting for his time to get back on the gridiron.

Egan entered the season with high expectations after earning first-team All-Metro honors at safety and an honorable mention at running back in his second year on varsity.

However, his plans changed when he was diagnosed with mono just before the season began. Missing six weeks of football was not easy for Egan, who had spent years helping O'Dea compete for championships.

Egan explained how difficult it has been knowing this is his last year on the team. The challenge of missing the beginning of his final high school season has been as much mental as physical.

“Honestly, it's been kind of difficult for me. That's a part of the mental game,” Egan said.

Egan has always found success in the physical aspects of athletics, but it is his mentality that is now being challenged.

“It's been disappointing, obviously, but I'm not letting it get into my head,” Egan said.

For him, it is about more than just missing games. Being on the sidelines and talking to his teammates is not the same as putting on the pads and going to battle with them on the gridiron.

The bond created through competing together is something he has missed, making these first six weeks even more difficult. Despite the disappointment, he has tried to stay focused and find ways to contribute to the team.

Egan has always been the type of player that has let his play do the talking. Now that he is on the sideline he is focused on being the role model the team needs to keep on winning.

“I'm still finding ways to help the team other than being out there,” Egan said, “through leadership and being a positive teammate.”

Egan knows that the younger guys are relying on him to be a big part of their year even if he isn't playing. He highlighted how proud he is of the people who have stepped up in his absence.

O'Dea has started the season 4-0, continuing its success from the previous two years. While the Irish have remained undefeated, Egan's absence has left a noticeable gap in the secondary.

His experience and ability to make plays were important parts of the defense last season.

When he returns, Egan believes he can make an impact beyond his individual performance.

“I think when I come back I can bring great leadership to the secondary, especially being a senior who has done it before,” Egan said.

With his return still ahead, Egan remains focused on getting back on the field and holding up the state trophy one last time.