Saylor Paden loves to play the game of volleyball and she has worked hard to become the player that she is today. She says that along with the usual work, you have to be willing to do the extra stuff if you want to be your best.
“I have put in a lot of practice over the years,” she said. “But something that has been very beneficial for me as a volleyball player has been playing club volleyball. Also, all of the different coaches I have had really helped me.”
Paden is in her senior year at Weatherford High School. She plays setter and outside hitter on the volleyball team. Outside of sports, she is also involved in the student council, the National Honor Society, and the leadership lab.
There are days when she may not feel like putting in the work, but Paden pushes through by keeping herself focused.
“Staying motivated is important,” she said. “Some of my biggest motivators are my teammates and the will to win.”
During her career, Saylor has made memories with her teammates and also had her own personal accomplishments. One of those stands out as her favorite.
“I think the highlight of my career would have to be when I was named a team captain,” she said. “Another would be any time we beat Clinton. They are our rivals and it is always fun to get a win against them.”
Saylor has had a number of people in her life that have made an impact on her.
“My parents are my biggest role models,” she said. “They push me to be the best. Also all of my best friends are really important to me. A teacher that has been influential in my life is Mrs. Weiberg. She cares about us so much and she makes school fun.”
Whenever she steps on the volleyball court, wearing her Weatherford uniform, Paden is reminded that she is playing for more than just herself.
“It means a lot to me to be able to represent the Weatherford Eagles,” she stated proudly. “We are all a family and it has been the best four years.”
As a student athlete, Paden has to balance her practice and game schedule while also making sure she has time to complete her school work. She says that making time is important.
“In order to be a successful student athlete, I have to set time for school work,” she said. “Like going to Starbucks and getting all my homework done before my other activities.”
