In this article, we’ll explore Saylor Hawkins, a rising star in collegiate athletics whose journey is rooted in resilience, versatility, and vision. From dominating multiple sports in high school to setting diving records in the NCAA, Hawkins is not only making waves in the pool but also redefining what it means to be a student-athlete. Her story stands out for its balance of athletic talent, academic excellence, and personal growth—driven by strong family values, entrepreneurial spirit, and a commitment to lifting others along the way.
Quick Bio:
| Full Name | Saylor Hawkins |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | May 1, 2001 |
| Age | 24 (as of 2025) |
| Hometown | Plymouth, Minnesota, USA |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 135 lbs (61 kg) |
| College | University of North Texas |
| Major | Kinesiology (MBA in Sports Management) |
| Sport | Diving (3m, Platform) |
| NCAA Honors | Conference USA Academic & Diving Awards |
| Net Worth Estimate | $50K–$100K (via scholarships/NIL) |
| Social Media | Instagram: @saysayhawk_ |
| Parents | Wayne and Kari Hawkins |
| Siblings | 4 (Adrian, Dominique, Ebony, Dayas) |
Early Life and Family Support
Saylor Hawkins was born on May 1, 2001, in Plymouth, Minnesota, into a highly athletic and supportive family. She is one of five siblings—Adrian, Dominique, Ebony, Saylor, and Dayas Hawkins—raised by parents Wayne and Kari Hawkins. Her father, Wayne, is a former collegiate football and track athlete who was drafted by the New England Patriots in 1992, while her mother, Kari, has a background in marketing and spent over two decades working in public service.
Growing up in a household where sports, discipline, and education were emphasized, Saylor quickly developed a drive for excellence. Her parents encouraged her to pursue a wide range of interests, giving her the freedom to try gymnastics, track, swimming, and diving. The Hawkins family also instilled values of leadership and responsibility, which would later become defining features of Saylor’s athletic and academic identity.
Overcoming Challenges
Saylor’s journey wasn’t without personal hurdles. She was diagnosed with dyslexia at a young age—a challenge that made traditional learning more difficult. But instead of seeing it as a limitation, she used it as a source of motivation. She learned early how to manage her time, stay organized, and create her own strategies for success. In her own words, “Having dyslexia helped me develop the kind of discipline I use in both my sport and my education.”
This mindset gave her the resilience needed to tackle elite competition in and out of the classroom. Whether diving from a 3-meter platform or writing term papers for her kinesiology courses, Saylor brought the same focus and determination to every aspect of her life. It also made her a role model for students and athletes facing similar challenges, proving that obstacles can be stepping stones with the right mindset.
High School Excellence and Multi-Sport Talents
Saylor attended Breck School, a private institution in Minneapolis known for its rigorous academics and strong athletic programs. There, she emerged as a standout across multiple sports, earning an astounding 19 varsity letters in diving, gymnastics, and track & field. She was a captain in every sport she competed in and won back-to-back Minnesota State Diving Championships—cementing her status as one of the most accomplished athletes in school history.
But Saylor’s impact wasn’t limited to her physical ability. Coaches and teammates consistently praised her for her leadership, work ethic, and infectious positivity. She built a reputation not only as a competitor but also as someone who lifted others up. Whether she was teaching younger athletes a new dive or cheering from the sidelines, she brought energy and empathy to every team environment.
Making a Splash at the University of North Texas
After graduating from Breck, Saylor committed to the University of North Texas (UNT), where she has become one of the most decorated divers in the program’s history. Competing for the Mean Green Swimming and Diving Team, she broke school records in both the 3-meter springboard and platform diving events, while qualifying for the NCAA Zones in multiple seasons.
Majoring in Kinesiology with a minor in Entrepreneurship, she maintained a strong GPA while balancing early morning practices, national competitions, and campus involvement. Her academic achievements have earned her repeated Conference USA Honor Roll selections, and she was recognized for her excellence in both sport and scholarship.
Saylor is currently pursuing her MBA in Sports Entertainment Management, further demonstrating her ambition to expand her impact beyond the pool. She often speaks about wanting to bridge the gap between sports performance and business leadership, with dreams of launching her own ventures in the sports industry.
Beyond the Pool – Leadership and Vision
Saylor isn’t just building a career—she’s building a movement. She calls herself a “visionary entrepreneur”, and those close to her agree. Her long-term goals include starting a real estate firm, launching wellness products for athletes, and expanding NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) education for female student-athletes. She’s also interested in public speaking and motivational coaching.
She has used her platform to promote causes close to her heart, including mental health awareness, female empowerment in sports, and diversity in athletics. Through interviews, appearances, and content creation, she delivers messages that resonate with both young athletes and adult audiences. Her motto, often shared on social media, is: “Excellence is the result of caring more than others think is wise.”
Social Media and Public Image
Saylor has cultivated a growing digital presence, using platforms like Instagram (@saysayhawk_), TikTok, and Twitter (@hawkinssaylor) to connect with fans and fellow athletes. Her content ranges from diving clips and workout routines to motivational quotes and behind-the-scenes snapshots of college life. She’s also a frequent contributor to athlete-focused platforms like Opendorse, where she promotes responsible branding and NIL awareness.
Her social media reflects her personality—ambitious, grounded, and fun. She often posts about her favorite outdoor activities, road trips, or time spent with her family and friends. She’s known for her authenticity and uplifting energy, which has helped her build a loyal following among high school athletes, NCAA fans, and wellness enthusiasts alike.
The Bigger Picture – What Saylor Represents
Saylor Hawkins isn’t just another athlete excelling in her sport—she represents a new generation of student-athletes who are equally invested in community impact, education, and personal development. She proves that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of balance. Her story is one of defying expectations—not only through medals and records but through how she handles adversity, leads others, and gives back.
At a time when collegiate sports are becoming increasingly commercialized, Saylor’s holistic approach is refreshing. She reminds us that the athlete’s identity doesn’t end at the edge of the pool—it extends into classrooms, communities, and conversations about equity, opportunity, and legacy.
Future Plans and What’s Next
Looking ahead, Saylor has a number of exciting paths to choose from. Whether it’s pursuing elite-level diving after graduation, becoming a sports broadcaster, launching a business, or mentoring future student-athletes, her skill set and vision are aligned for success. She has already expressed interest in joining professional athlete development programs and eventually moving into sports leadership or athlete representation.
Whatever path she takes, it’s clear that Saylor will continue to break barriers and make waves. She’s already proven she can excel under pressure, build meaningful relationships, and turn challenges into opportunities. Her journey is far from over—and she’s only getting started.
Conclusion
Saylor Hawkins is not just a talented diver—she’s a driven, multi-dimensional leader who is shaping the future of college athletics. From battling dyslexia to shattering diving records, she has consistently turned obstacles into stepping stones. Her time at the University of North Texas has showcased not only her competitive edge but also her compassionate spirit and business-savvy mindset. As she prepares for the next phase of her career, Saylor is more than ready to lead, inspire, and transform. In every sense of the word, she is breaking barriers and making waves, and the sports world is better because of it.
FAQs:
Q1: What sports has Saylor Hawkins competed in?
She has excelled in diving, gymnastics, and track & field, earning 19 varsity letters in high school.
Q2: Where does Saylor Hawkins go to college?
She attends the University of North Texas, where she is pursuing an MBA in Sports Entertainment Management.
Q3: Has Saylor Hawkins broken any records?
Yes, she holds school records at UNT in the 3-meter springboard and platform diving events.
Q4: What makes Saylor Hawkins stand out?
Her blend of athleticism, academic achievement, leadership, and resilience—especially overcoming dyslexia—makes her a unique and inspiring athlete.
Q5: Where can I follow Saylor Hawkins?
She’s active on Instagram @saysayhawk_, Twitter @hawkinssaylor, and TikTok.
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