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Slaughter Mon Apr 05 2010
Interview with Jarrett Payton
Jarrett Payton, son of legendary Chicago Bear Walter Payton, signed with the Chicago Slaughter as their Running Back for the 2010 season. The Slaughter season opened just over a month ago and Payton has already rushed for four touchdowns and thrown for one. Read on as Jarrett talks with GB about his love for Chicago and football.
How does competing internationally compare to being in your hometown Chicago?
Competing nationally and internationally is cool, but there is nothing that beats playing in your hometown. Chicago has seen me grow up -- not just in sports -- but they have seen me grow from a baby into becoming a man. I'm not just bringing in fans of Chicago Slaughter, but bringing in Payton family fans and the Foundation folks. And, the kids who are 10 and under are getting involved and becoming Payton fans -- football fans. Being in one of the top sports cities in the nation and playing in my backyard is the best.
Which team are you looking forward to challenging most this year?
I can't wait to play Rochester again because we played them the first time I ever played indoors [Slaughter Home Opener 02/27/10... Slaughter lost 47-49 with a last minute field goal by Rochester]. There was a lot going on that day and I want to play them again.
How did your father influence your career -- tips and advice that still remain with you?
He has always been all of my motivation to work hard in anything I have ever done. Not just in football, but in life. His philosophy of never giving up is something I truly live by -- "You do something until you don't love it anymore" -- that's what my father always said. I still play football because I love it to death.
Tell me about your recording career -- how does your love for music relate to your sports career.
They go hand in hand. Without music, there is no football and without football there is no music. They keep me balanced and both bring me peace. When I have both of them, I am centered. I keep my headphones on while I'm on the field until the kickoff.
Check out Jarrett's myspace page to sample from of his music or follow him on Twitter @paytonsun.
The next home game will be Saturday, April 24, at 7:05pm. For more information visit the team's website.
