VTSU Johnson Athletics Department welcomes Peyton Niles as she commits to joining the varsity softball program for the 2025-26 campaign. Ever on the move, Niles joins Johnson most recently from BFA Fairfax, where she played an essential role in the Bullets' run to the DIII state title game. Their 2025 season saw Niles earn Athlete of the Week honors, highlighting her key plays in the state quarterfinal win, ultimately contributing to her First-Team Utility Player recognition at season's end. The Health Sciences major brings with her a team-first, positive attitude, determined approach that lends itself to athletic success, balanced with a "have fun" mindset that brings teammates together; a true Badger already.

Welcome to Johnson, Peyton! Go Badgers!

Name: Peyton Niles

Preferred name/nickname: Peyton

Position(s): First Base, Second Base, Outfield

Hometown: Military Child (Arizona, Arkansas, New York, and Vermont)

Club team: Vermont Rockets

High School: BFA Fairfax

Softball Awards/Honors: First-Team Utility Player (2025), Second-Team Catcher (2023), Athlete of the Week (2025)

Projected major at VTSU Johnson: Health Sciences 

What are you looking forward to most about VTSU Johnson: New people and new experiences

Most memorable athletic moment: The winning game to get us into the championship my 2024 season

Favorite musical artist(s): SZA, Drake, Gracie Abrams, Sombr, Gigi Perez, Megan Moroney, Luke Bryan

Favorite Food: Anything buffalo or shrimp alfredo

Favorite Ben and Jerry's flavor: Chocolate Fudge Brownie

Favorite Holiday: Halloween

What do you want people to know about you? Aside from being passionate about my sports, I'm hardworking, kind, openminded, and very passionate about my family and friends.