Feature Story
Uplifted at Every Turn: Maxym Sutton Reflects on His Student-Athlete Experience
Since coming to Southern Virginia University at 17, Maxym Sutton’s student experience has been full of unexpected moments. Now preparing to complete his undergraduate degree in biochemistry in May 2025, Sutton can sum up his Knight experience in one word: Uplifting.
“Knowing college was going to be hard and being a pretty young member of our nationally ranked men’s volleyball team, I was scared and kind of apprehensive,” said Sutton. “But then I got here, and everything uplifted me. My professors were always there for me, my teammates have made me a better player, and the institute program has helped me be a better disciple of Christ.”
Sutton was first introduced to Southern Virginia by his cousin Claire, a 2017 alumna, while he was looking for a college on the East Coast that supported his faith. Shortly after, Jon Baker, the assistant volleyball coach at the time, reached out to recruit him to the team. After visiting campus, Sutton decided to move across the country from his home in California and become a Knight.
“I wanted to go to a church-centered school, and I really wanted to play volleyball, but I was graduating early from high school and didn’t think I had a chance at playing at another school that young,” said Sutton. “Then, after my cousin and the coach reached out, I decided to attend Southern Virginia University, and I have loved it here ever since.”
Playing as a setter on the men’s volleyball team his freshman and sophomore year, Sutton paused his athletic career to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Busan, Korea. After his mission, he returned to participate in the team’s progression to a perfect 26-0 regular season record, third conference title, and becoming number one in the national rankings by the end of their 2023–24 season.
“My favorite athletic highlight here was during last year’s conference championship, “ said Sutton. “It was the game point of the fourth set, and the whole crowd was on their feet. If we won the set, we would advance to the Sweet 16 of the national championship. And then I got an ace, and it was incredible. It is by far one of my best sports moments ever.”
Off the court, Sutton has been uplifted not only in his classes by his peers and professors, but also in church and the Institute of Religion, which was a major contributing factor to his decision to attend Southern Virginia.
“I love this school for many reasons. It’s been a wonderful place to get a STEM degree and to continue playing sports at a high level,” said Sutton. “I also love the institute program because I can be surrounded by people who hold the same standards and strengthen my relationship with the Savior. It’s one of the main reasons I decided to come here!”