COLUMBUS – Columbus State University junior forward Payton Conti has been selected as this week's Athlete of the Week following her breakout performance in Saturday's 2–0 victory over Georgia Southwestern.

The Dallas, Ga., native and Exercise Science major made the most of her opportunity, netting her first collegiate goal as a Lady Cougar in the 84th minute to seal the Lady Cougars' Peach Belt Conference opening win. The strike not only secured the match but also marked a memorable milestone in Conti's CSU career.

When asked what she loves most about the sport, Conti reflected on the deeper impact soccer has made in her life:
"It gives me a second family and a home away from home. It is something I can turn to, to clear my head. It gives me friendships and bonds to last a lifetime."

Conti's play and leadership on and off the field highlight her growing role within the program, as the Lady Cougars look to build momentum in PBC play.