Featured Athlete of the Week: Payten Simpson, Cloverdale

Friday, September 30, 2016
Payten Simpson hits a serve in a match earlier this year.
Banner Graphic/Joey Bennett

Payten Simpson is a three-sport athlete at Cloverdale, competing in volleyball, basketball and softball.

Banner Graphic: Which sport do you like the best?

Payten Simpson: They’re all my favorites, so I can’t pick just one.

BG: What is your role on the volleyball team, and how has the season gone?

PS: Right now, I’m playing back row. I think I’m a better hitter outside. We just had a big win, and I’m hoping that we win a lot more. That was awesome.

BG: What are some of your favorite classes in school?

PS: I’m in strength/conditioning and this awesome cooking class. Math is my favorite. It’s the thing I’m the best at.

BG: What do you like to do when you’re not playing sports?

PS: Whenever I’m not playing school sports, I’m out playing sports somewhere else.

BG: Do you have any pets?

PS: I’ve had a dog since eighth grade. He is my life. He is a Toyel Shian Shepherd and his name is Jerry Lee. He is my absolute favorite thing in the world. I usually try to snuggle him up as much as I can since I don’t have much time at home. I throw the ball with him a few times. I absolutely love dogs. I tried to train him, but I got too busy.

PS: I play just about everywhere in softball, and I play forward in basketball.

BG: What goals do you have for the rest of this year?

PS: I really want to win conference in all of my sports. That would be amazing.

BG: Who are some of your biggest supporters?

PS: My dad is a really big supporter and my friends. They are all great.

BG: How has high school gone for you, even though it’s almost over?

PS: My freshman year was the best year for me, because I grew up with everyone and spent time with the older kids. It’s sad that it’s ending, so I’m going to college and get a new start. It’s an ending, but it’s a beginning. I’m excited.

BG: What are your plans for after high school?

PS: I want to go to Indiana and I am debating whether to be a lawyer, a veterinarian or a therapist.

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