Hi, my name is Payton Norman, and I’m 17 years old. I’ve lived in Rolling Hills for the past eight years, and what I love most about this neighborhood is how beautiful and peaceful it is. I never get tired of the views and the trails - it’s the perfect place to come home to after a long day of school and soccer.

Soccer has been a huge part of my life since I was five years old. I started playing because my older brother did, and at first it was all about running around and having fun. Over the years, though, it became so much more. I stayed with it because of the amazing teammates and coaches who pushed me, encouraged me, and made the game something I truly love.

Today, I play center back for Beach FC’s ECNL 2008 team as well as the PVHS girls varsity team. I’m also verbally committed to play at the University of Washington next fall, which I’m super excited about.

I look up to Alex Morgan because of her determination and leadership. She’s shown how powerful female athletes can be, not just on the field but in using their voices for equality. I also admire Mikaela Shiffrin, the most decorated alpine skier in World Cup history, for her discipline and focus. Both of them remind me that being a strong female means working hard, staying confident, and never backing down from challenges.

I’ve also had some pretty cool experiences along the way. Abby Wambach, one of the greatest soccer players of all time, is actually my teammate’s mom - and it’s awesome having her on the sidelines cheering us on.

Balancing school and sports isn’t always easy, but I take it one day at a time. I’ve learned to stay organized and to prioritize what matters most. It’s taught me a lot about patience and perseverance, and also how important it is to lean on the people around you for support.

Soccer has taught me so many life lessons: discipline, grit, the importance of teamwork, and how to handle both wins and losses with grace. One of the biggest influences in my life has been my club coach of eight years, Tino Nuñez. He pushed me out of my comfort zone, believed in me when I doubted myself, and taught me how to be tough both mentally and physically. I wouldn’t be the player I am today without him.

Some of my proudest moments include being named Rookie of the Year during my first high school varsity season, making Second Team All-Conference CIF, getting selected for the Girls Academy Southwest Talent ID camp twice, and earning a spot on the ECNL Southwest All-Conference Second Team.

I can’t wait to continue my journey at the University of Washington. I’m excited to keep challenging myself, learning in the classroom, and giving my best on the field. My hope is to keep building resilience, leadership, and character - qualities that will serve me not just in soccer, but in life.

If I could give advice to younger athletes in the neighborhood, I’d say: find a sport you truly love and give it your all. Work hard, learn from every challenge, and most importantly, enjoy the friendships and memories you make along the way.

I’m so grateful to my family for always supporting me, to my coaches and teammates for pushing me to be better, and to the Rolling Hills community for cheering me on. 

This neighborhood has been such a wonderful place to grow up, and I feel really lucky to call it home.