High School Standouts: Payton Nutzman, Eastside Soccer

TAYLORS, S.C. (WSPA) – This week’s high school standout earned national recognition after her overtime golden goal secured Eastside’s second state championship in as many years.

Payton Nutzman was awarded the USA TODAY National Girls Play of the Year for the perfectly-placed ball that made it 2-1 Eagles in the fourth overtime period of the 4A State Championship in May.

“It’s amazing,” said Nutzman. “All my hard work is paying off.”

One of the top players in the region, Nutzman led the Eastside squad in nearly all major categories, including goals (21), assists (17) and points (59), according to MaxPreps.

Now in her final season at Eastside, the Mercer commit will look to lead the Eagles to a third consecutive championship in a new division.

“We’re moving up to 5A this year so we’re playing a whole bunch of bigger schools so winning the region would be awesome,” Nutzman said.

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