Amiyah Saxton crowned the SoutheastHealth Female Athlete of the Year

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. — In the realm of high school sports, where dreams are forged and legends take shape, one name shines brighter than the rest.

Amiyah Saxton, an embodiment of unwieldy commitment and prowess, recently attained a remarkable milestone in her athletic journey when she was named the SoutheastHEALTH Female Athlete of the Year at the Semoball Award on Friday, July 14 at La Croix Church.

“I was shocked,” Saxton said. “It felt good and I’m honored to receive this award for all my hard work and dedication in volleyball and basketball. I don’t feel like any of this would be possible without God, my family, coaches, teammates and peers at Portageville High School.”

Portageville�s Amiyah Saxton signs with Mineral Area College at a recent ceremony at Portageville High School. (Submitted)

As Saxton stood on the stage, clutching her well-deserved award, it was a testament not only to her present accomplishments but also to the journey that led her to that moment — a journey that ignited its park in the humble beginnings of athletic pursuit.

“My journey began at home,” she said. “With my parents telling me any sports I play I had to practice at home. I began playing sports in elementary school and haven’t stopped since. My motivation to excel is knowing I’m a role model off and on the court.”

Just when she thought her high school chapter would be the final page of her athletic journey, fate intervened and presented her with a fortuitous opportunity to continue both her athletic and academic endeavors.

Portageville's Amiyah Saxton (34) drives during a 40-21 loss to West County in a MSHSAA Class 3 Quarterfinal at the Farmington Civic Center on Saturday, March 4. (D�Courtland Christian/Daily American Republic)

Despite initial uncertainty, Saxton’s passion led her to make a last-minute decision that will shape her future.

With perfect timing, Saxton recently inked her commitment to play volleyball at Mineral Area College (MAC), marking the next thrilling chapter in her extraordinary narrative of perseverance and triumph.

“To be honest, after the volleyball and basketball were over I wasn’t sure if wanted to play at the college level,” Saxton said. “I was thinking I’ve been playing sports all my life. I had a talk with my mom and after that talk, I decided. I went on a few college visits but when I went to MAC I immediately loved it. After, talking and listening to [MAC head] coach [Tim] Copeland about his volleyball program I knew I wanted to attend MAC.”

Portageville's Amiyah Saxton (26) goes for a kill�during the team's win over East Prairie in the MSHSAA Class 2 District 1 Championship at PHS on Tuesday, Oct. 25.�Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

In volleyball, she had been honored as the Bootheel Conference Player of the Year in 2022 and 2023. Her leadership helped the Lady Bulldogs secure a district championship with a commendable 22-11-1 overall record.

Saxton’s offensive skills yielded an impressive 263 kills, supported by 47 aces. On the defensive end, she showcased her agility with 240 digs and 56 blocks.

Switching to basketball, Saxton continued to impress. Portageville achieved a notable 23-7 record and claimed another district championship. She was recognized as the MSHSAA Class 3, District 1 Player of the Year.

Portageville's Amiyah Saxton (34) drives during a 61-25 win over Woodland in a MSHSAA Class 3 Sectional at the Sikeston Fieldhouse on Monday, Feb. 28. (Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat)

Saxton’s scoring ability was evident with an average of 12.1 points per game.

Furthermore, she contributed 8.9 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 2.3 steals and 1.6 blocks per game, displaying her versatility and defensive effectiveness.

“My high school coaches and teammates played a helpful role in my success,” she said. “I became stronger and wiser as a player. They are all amazing individuals and I am going to miss them. They contributed to my development and achievements by encouraging me and having intense and meaningful practices that I will never forget.”

Portageville's Amiyah Saxton (26) gets a kill during the team's win over East Prairie in the MSHSAA Class 2 District 1 Championship at PHS on Tuesday, Oct. 25. (Dennis Marshall/Standard Democrat)

To prepare for the college scene, Saxton diligently hones her skills through rigorous weightlifting, dedicated home workouts, and intensive court sessions with her friends, recognizing the value of being a multi-sport athlete as it amplifies her overall athletic talent.

However, her greatest strength lies in her coachability.

“I’m willing to learn and step outside my comfort zone,” Saxton said. “I’m willing to do whatever my coaches need me to do for our team. I plan to put in the time and dedication to improve.

Portageville's Amiyah Saxton (34) works in the paint�during a 61-25 win over Woodland in a MSHSAA Class 3 Sectional at the Sikeston Fieldhouse on Monday, Feb. 28. (Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat)Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

“I envision my college experience both academically and athletically to be different from high school,” she continued. “That’s a good thing. I plan to get better. My goals are to improve myself and give the MAC coaches and teammates the best me and eventually play at the highest collegiate level.”

As Saxton reflects on her voyage and the countless hours of hard work that led her to this pinnacle of success, she offers sage advice to aspiring young athletes who yearn to follow in her footsteps.

“Playing multiple sports improves your performance, leadership and teamwork,” she concluded. “And remember, “Always use your God-given talents.”