The start of a new season usually sees some new faces. With the Westside varsity volleyball team, that’s junior outside hitter Ashlyn Paymal, who is a future Creighton recruit. Paymal transferred from Omaha Burke High School to start the season as a Warrior.  Paymal is entering her junior year at Westside, a program that has seen a lot of growth over the past couple of years.

“I’m excited to come in and be an upperclassman and finally lead the underclassmen and bring some good culture to the team,” Paymal said. 

Westside is gaining a skilled and experienced player to help them reach their goals for this season. Head coach Andrew Wehrli, who is also brand new to Westside, was Paymal’s club volleyball coach at Nebraska Elite Volleyball. 

“Her ability to get up and be physical right off the net is great for us,” Wehrli said. 

The familiar faces at coaching made Paymal’s decision a lot easier. 

“He was my club coach for a couple of years, so it’s a big decision to come here but he made it a lot easier for me,” Paymal said.

 Paymal had an impressive sophomore season at Burke. She recorded 259 kills, had a .284 hitting percentage, 47 blocks and 34 aces, which is a big addition to the Warriors, following the loss of several seniors. Paymal is set to join one of those seniors, Destiny Ndam-Simpson following her senior season in 2024-2025 at Creighton University.

 “Creighton is close to home, so that’s a big decision factor. I love being near friends and family so they can come watch me and support me. Being 12th in the nation is also super exciting,” Paymal said. 

Paymal is excited to work under longtime Creighton head coach Kirsten Bernthal Booth.