While growing up in Roseville, Ohio, Maddie Clayton’s passion for the sport of volleyball grew alongside her. Clayton began gaining significant recognition within her sport while she attended Philo High School. At Philo, Clayton earned the honor of being named a three-time Ohio Division II All-District and All-Muskingum Valley selection. Pairing these accolades was an MVL Defensive Player of the Year in 2015.

It is no secret that Clayton possesses skills that make collegiate volleyball coaches swoon. Her six foot five build, along with her speed, agility, and floor awareness has made her a valuable asset for the Hilltoppers squad year in and year out. The senior has seen even more accomplishments come her way throughout her career than any other athlete in years past. Clayton once again earned the honor of being named a two time Mountain East Conference All-MEC selection, along with a Mountain East Conference Academic Honor Roll accolade.

Clayton, who has lettered each year she has played thus far, has seen incredible single game career highs in kills (16), and blocks (8). However, although Clayton has the ability to single-handedly take control of matches, perhaps what is most impressive about her is the consistency she brings. Prior to this season, Clayton is responsible for upwards of 229 kills, 80 blocks, and 25 aces.

The ability to dominate the floor paired with her consistency has certainly carried over to the beginnings of the 2020-21 campaign, earning an MEC Offensive Player of the Week award. Clayton was responsible for 10 kills and 5 blocks during WLU’s victory against Fairmont State, and also 11 kills in 19 attacks while facing Frostburg State. These numbers have propelled the Hilltoppers to an early 4-2 record, with the only losses coming against Wheeling University (ranked #21 nationally), and Notre Dame College of Ohio.

The road ahead for the Hilltoppers will not be an easy one. With four games remaining until the MEC Tournament, including a rematch against the Wheeling Cardinals on March 5, WLU hopes to continue their hot hand. With Clayton as an anchor at middle blocker, the Lady Hilltoppers have a very strong chance of capturing a MEC championship title.