Jenks High School senior Payton Shafer values the connections that define the Lady Trojans volleyball program as she prepares for another varsity season.

A setter, Shafer takes responsibility for directing the offense and creating opportunities for her teammates at the net. Just as important to her, though, is the culture surrounding the team.

“I love how close we all are and how supportive everyone is of each other,” Shafer said. “I’m a setter and something I enjoy most about being on the team is the friendships I have.”

Shafer enters the season eager to compete against every opponent while pursuing the Lady Trojans’ biggest objective.

“I’m most excited to play everyone and to reach our goal of winning state,” Shafer said.

Her role requires communication, quick decision-making and the ability to remain composed when momentum shifts. Shafer said past experiences have helped shape how she handles the demands that come with playing varsity volleyball.

“I learned that pressure is a privilege and it’s good to face adversity during the game of volleyball, and being able to face adversity will help me this year,” Shafer said.

Shafer identifies her ability to operate the offense and involve Jenks’ middle hitters as key parts of her game. At the same time, she is focused on improving another area.

“My strength is to run an offense and run my middles, and I am working on my defense overall,” Shafer said.

Away from the court, Shafer is involved in Family, Career and Community Leaders of America. She credits her mother as a major influence and looks ahead to a career in health care after graduation.

“My mom inspires me the most because she’s always taught me how to be a better person and has always been a good role model for me,” Shafer said. “After I graduate, I plan to get my nursing license.”

Shafer also said former Jenks player Izzy Hinds made an impact on her development.

“Izzy Hinds left me an impression because I looked up to her, she was the same position as me,” Shafer said.