Payton Hoague | Junior | Middle Blocker

Coming off a club season that included earning a Nationals bid and competing at the USAV Girls Junior National Championships with Top Flight 16 National Black, Hoague brings that experience into Palo Verde’s postseason push. She has contributed 36 kills while hitting .124, alongside a team-leading 30 total blocks. Her work in the middle gives the Panthers another offensive option and a presence against opposing attackers. With national-level club competition behind her, Hoague is building her experience in matches where every touch matters.

Payton sees Summer NIT as the result of months of dedication and a commitment to getting better every day. She believes her team’s invitation reflects the work that happens behind the scenes, telling PrepDig Nevada,

“Our team has worked throughout the season to not only get 1% better each day but also be the first 16U team in Nevada to earn a Nationals BID.”

As her team prepares for the tournament, Payton expects coaches and spectators to notice a group built on chemistry and trust. “We support each other not only through the highs but also through the lows,” she said, highlighting one of the qualities she believes contributes to the team’s success.

“A personal goal is to contribute on and off the court. My mentality when going into a tournament is to reflect on my most recent games and find ways to make an impact on the court. I want to be as consistent and confident as possible. When it comes to college coaches, fans, or opponents I hope to showcase that not only am I a contributor in my position, but also flexible in other positions needed to be filled. I am always a team first mentality and hope to show that it is visible.”

Payton plays for Top Flight Volleyball Academy 16 National Black. Good luck this weekend Payton!

-Kantessa Bryant-Miller @prepdignv