When first grader Ashlyn Paymal began playing volleyball, she wasn’t sure what to expect. Her only goal was to get the ball over the net as she laughed and joked with her friends. Now, the high school junior dreams big after making the 2023 All-Nebraska volleyball team.

“I didn’t expect to make the team,” Paymal said. “I was the only junior and it was a bit intimidating to be on a team with all seniors but I was super excited.”

Paymal also got the All-Tournament award and the All-Metro award, but she makes sure to not let it get to her head.

“I try to be the biggest leader possible on and off the court to try and encourage my teammates as much as I can,” Paymal said. “I also try to maintain a calm atmosphere on the court.”

Paymal’s family have stood with her on every step of her journey.

“They were  so supportive,” Paymal said. “They were the ones who wanted me to play sports in the first place and then they were in support of whatever decision I decided to make.”

Paymal had played softball and basketball as well. She ended up quitting those as she entered high school in order to focus more on volleyball.

“I realized that I was actually good at it.” Paymal said. “The game itself is fun and the atmosphere, especially in Nebraska, is so competitive so all of the teams are amazing.”

What started off as a fun activity to do with friends grew into a passion for the sport. While being the only junior on the team, Paymal has never felt out of place.

“The rest of the team are so inclusive and they treat me the same as everyone else,” Paymal said. “The people who were writing the article were making a pretty big deal out of it, which was super exciting.”

Paymal received an email from her coach about her acceptance to the All-State team. Before she knew it, photos were being taken and an article about her was in the paper.

“This gives me a lot of extra confidence going in for next year,” Paymal said. “I’m excited for how far our team is going to go.”

Paymal is committed to Creighton for volleyball and is excited to continue her journey after high school.

“After that, I don’t know yet if I’m going to go professional,” Paymal said. “It all depends on how my college career goes, but hey. It’s a possibility.”