Mishawaka, Ind. – Bethel University Women's Volleyball player and former NorthWood Panther Maddy Payne made history Wednesday, becoming the all-time leader in career blocks with 688. Payne, a standout middle blocker, achieved the milestone during the match against Mount Vernon Nazarene University, surpassing the previous record of 687 held by Jackie Teppe (1991-1994). 

The fifth-year senior's record-breaking block came in the fifth set of the match, solidifying her place in Bethel Women's Volleyball history. Teppe had held the record for three decades, but Payne's consistency and athleticism have set a new standard for future Pilots.

Head coach Erica Dregits praised Payne's achievement, saying, "Maddy's work ethic, determination, and pure grit have helped her achieve this remarkable milestone. I'm so proud of her and the legacy she is leaving on the Bethel Volleyball program."

The Bethel Pilots are set to continue their season with the Huntington Foresters on Saturday, Sept. 7 at 1 p.m. in the Gates Gymnasium.

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