Known for her great glove and range, Derby High School softball player Paige Paxton can play anywhere on the field for head coach Christy Weve. Paxton started playing softball at the age of five and she has loved every moment since. Paxton said she loves the family atmosphere at Derby. “The thing I love most about my teammates is that we’re a family. The friendships I’ve made could last a lifetime,” said Paxton.

Missing last season due to pandemic, Paxton said it was tough to not be on the field with her teammates, but this season they are making up for lost time.  “When COVID-19 hit all of us were devastated, and the fact that we get to be back on the field is amazing. None of us are taking it for granted, it’s a blessing,” said Paxton. “This season has been kind of a rollercoaster. At the very beginning of the season, I was struggling at the plate. I’ve changed my approach, and it’s working for me.”

Coach Weve said Paxton has improved at the plate and is capable of laying down a bunt when needed. But for Paxton, some of the best memories have come from things which happened off the field. “My favorite memory as a Derby High School softball player would have to be when coach Weve made us practice outside knowing the weather could turn out to be bad… it started hailing and all of us were getting welted trying to run to our cars,” said Paxton.

Academics are always a top priority for Paxton. Making sure she has the grades and is prepared for college was important for Paxton. “Academics are very important they always have to be put first. When it comes down to schoolwork or putting extra work on the field, I always put my grades first,” said Paxton. “I am part of the 2021 class, and after I graduate, I plan on attending Butler Community College to play softball.”

Her favorite class at school is one which allows her to take a mental break in the middle of a hectic day. “My favorite class would have to be weight training, because it’s a brain break in the middle of the day for me,” said Paxton.