Paula grew up on a farm near Casselton, North Dakota and transferred to Oak Grove. She played on the girls’ basketball team from 1973 to 1976 when girls’ basketball was in its early stages. She also ran track, was a cheerleader and sang in the concert choir and madrigals. She enrolled at Concordia College and made the varsity basketball team. She then transferred to the University of Hawaii and walked onto the women’s basketball team, earning a starting position. Paula returned to Concordia her senior year to play for the Lady Cobbers. That year they went on to win the AIAW National Championship and Paula was honored by being named All-American. Paula has lived in Arizona since 1988 and has taught physical education and coached for over 20 years. She has also been involved in the financial industry since 2006 selling insurance and annuities.