Peyton Cincoski still remembers the first time she put on a varsity jersey. “Earning a starting position on the varsity team and being able to compete at the varsity level” is what she’s most proud of this season, and it’s easy to see why. The Roxana freshman didn’t just make the roster—she has made an immediate impact.
That impact is why she’s been named the Shells’ August Athlete of the Month. The recognition comes early in her high school career, but Peyton’s play has been anything but timid. As an outside hitter and defensive specialist, she’s already delivered in big moments—most notably against Gateway Legacy, when she posted a career-high 17 kills.
“It was very early in the season and as a team we were still learning to trust each other and how to work towards success,” she said. “I felt like my setter, Mia Skinner, and I were executing plays amazingly and offensively I was eager to get the ball and put it down. The results were everything.”
For Peyton, that game was a turning point. It showed her that she belonged at this level—and that her team could compete with anyone.
Carrying on the Family Name in a Shell Uniform
Representing Roxana High School means more than just wearing a uniform for Peyton. “It is very special to me because not only am I representing my town and school, but I also love getting to carry on my Dad’s legacy as a Shell athlete,” she said.
The pride she feels wearing the Shells logo is matched only by the gratitude she has for the people who support her. “Thank you for coming out, supporting us and cheering us through the highs and lows,” Peyton said. “Energy is huge in volleyball and having that in the stands is a tremendous help to our team.”
That energy was on full display when Roxana took down Carlinville—one of the wins she’s most proud of this season. “That was going to be a very difficult game for us and we kept the momentum and energy and just battled the whole match.”
Finding Balance – and Belief
Life as a student-athlete isn’t easy, but Peyton has already learned how to balance her schedule. “Being an athlete means I often have late nights,” she said. “I try to make the most of my school day and get my homework done before I play or practice.”
Her parents have been her biggest supporters throughout the journey. “They have supported me through everything and there is not a moment when they aren’t behind me cheering me on,” Peyton said. “I can’t think of a time when I have looked up in the stands and not had them there.”
And like any athlete, she has her routines. Bubble braids are a must. “I won’t play without my hair in them,” she said. “I have had some of my greatest accomplishments with them.” She also listens to Michael Jackson before games—and after, her go-to meal is Franchise honey BBQ wings.
Between classes and matches, Peyton’s favorite subject is PE. “I love PE because I get to work on building my strength.” That strength—both physical and mental—has helped her rise quickly in the Shells’ program, and it’s clear she’s just getting started.
