Athletics

Juliet began her athletic career when she joined Montclair High School’s rowing team in 2013. Having suffered a knee injury that resulted in two surgeries and months in a wheelchair, Traylor joined the team with the goal of getting active. It became apparent that her athletic ability would open many doors for her.

As a public high school, Montclair had limited resources compared to their club team competition. Coaches Lorna Rundle and Jeremy Michalitsianos are huge contributors to the underdog team’s success. With their guidance and encouragement, Traylor lost 50 pounds by the end of her freshman year, regaining athleticism following post-op restrictions. Traylor helped the team to multiple Garden State Championship titles, and secured a Stotesbury Cup win. She served as team captain her junior and senior years.

Recruited to row at SMU on a full scholarship, Traylor quickly became a top-performer and leader amongst her team. Joining SMU’s team alongside a brand new coaching staff, Juliet adopted the goal of winning the team’s first conference championship.

As a freshman, Traylor began her 5-year stretch as a member of the Varsity 8+, the team’s top boat. In 2018 and 2019, the team fell short of winning a conference title. Traylor was voted captain the following year, beginning her three-year captainship.

In 2020, the team appeared in their first Pocock/CRCA coach’s poll, receiving votes as a ranked team. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic put an end to what was projected to be the team’s fastest year yet.

Traylor led the team through return-to-play protocols in the Fall of 2021. Under her leadership, the team accomplished a historic season: securing their first conference title and bid to the NCAA Championship. Placing 11th nationally, SMU surpassed expectations as a first-time competitor at the national level.

Traylor was named to the 2021 All-American team shortly thereafter.

Having been granted an extra year of eligibility by the NCAA, Juliet pursued one last year of rowing while pursuing her Master’s of Science in Management. The team defended their conference title and placed 12th at the NCAA Championship.

Traylor was named to the 2022 All-American team, and honored as SMU Student-Athlete of the year.

In May of 2022, Juliet’s rowing career came to a close. She credits her time as a collegiate athlete as a defining chapter– truly establishing her work-ethic and underdog mentality. Her experience as captain developed her leadership skills, and furthermore established her method of leading by example.

Today, athletics remain a beneficial outlet in Juliet’s life. In addition to working out most days, she teaches yoga at her local gym. With a mix of yoga, pilates, and strengthening exercises, Juliet shares her passion for fitness with community members. She is excited to continue as a group fitness instructor for the foreseeable future.