Clifton Senior Sophie Ritzmann Named Class Valedictorian

All-State runner and volleyball player headed to Texas A&M to study business

Apr. 2, 2026 at 3:39am

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Sophie Ritzmann, a senior at Clifton High School in Texas, has been named the class valedictorian. Ritzmann is an accomplished athlete, excelling in both long-distance running and volleyball. She is set to attend Texas A&M University in the fall to study business, with plans to eventually pursue law school. Ritzmann is also deeply committed to her faith and is excited about the Christian community at Texas A&M.

Why it matters

Ritzmann's achievements as a student-athlete and her dedication to serving others make her an inspiring role model for her peers. Her story highlights the importance of balancing academic excellence, athletic pursuits, and personal growth through faith and community involvement.

The details

Ritzmann has been an All-State runner and an All-District defensive specialist for the Clifton volleyball team. Her coaches praise her ability to lead by example and positively influence younger students. Despite her many accomplishments, Ritzmann believes she can always do more to support and serve others in her community.

  • Ritzmann set a goal to become class valedictorian back in eighth grade.
  • She will graduate from Clifton High School in the spring of 2026.
  • Ritzmann will begin her studies at Texas A&M University in the fall of 2026.

The players

Sophie Ritzmann

A senior at Clifton High School in Texas, Ritzmann is the class valedictorian and an accomplished athlete in both long-distance running and volleyball.

Ryan Hunt

The head track coach at Clifton High School, who is extremely proud of Ritzmann's achievements and leadership.

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What they’re saying

“Running might be the best part of my day. You don't have to think about school, you don't have to think about all the senior things that are right now seem really big. Then just being proud of something and work that you put in, and the fatigue feels nice.”

— Sophie Ritzmann, Student

“You're not going to get a better example of someone who is going to lead through an example and pass that down to the younger kids. So I'm just extremely proud of what she's been able to do and how she's helped our school and our program.”

— Ryan Hunt, Head Track Coach

“I mean I always think that I could give more. It never seems like you can ever give enough and there's always someone who needs to be supported more who needs a donation or who needs just someone to talk to, so I definitely do love serving people.”

— Sophie Ritzmann, Student

What’s next

Ritzmann will graduate as class valedictorian in the spring of 2026 and then begin her studies at Texas A&M University in the fall of that year, where she plans to pursue a business degree and eventually attend law school.

The takeaway

Sophie Ritzmann's story exemplifies the power of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to serving others. Her achievements as a student-athlete and her plans to continue her education and faith journey at Texas A&M make her an inspiring role model for her peers and the Clifton community.