Chandler High School senior Clayton Ritchie has embraced the responsibilities that come with leading a varsity team, both on and off the field. As a quarterback, Ritchie understands that his role goes beyond throwing passes — it requires setting the tone for his teammates.
“The most difficult thing is making sure I’m always being the leader I need to be and making sure everyone is on the same track,” Ritchie said.
Ritchie credits his father as his biggest influence, shaping both his athletic mindset and personal character. “He has always believed in me,” Ritchie said. “He has taught me what not giving up looks like and to always believe in yourself.”
That mindset has carried into his approach to athletics, where he values the daily grind as much as game-day moments. “I enjoy the fun memories, lifts and practices because it gives me a purpose to work toward something,” he said.
Among his favorite memories is a standout play that combined family and football. “My favorite memory is when I threw a 70-yard touchdown to my brother,” Ritchie said.
Ritchie said athletics have helped him grow in multiple areas. “Athletics has taught me patience, dedication and discipline,” he said.
Off the field, he enjoys spending time fishing and being with family and friends. He is also active in his church, where he greets members, and finds comfort in familiar spaces like the locker room. “It’s a good place to hang out and chill,” he said.
Academically, Ritchie favors history and counts Mrs. Leatherwood as his favorite teacher.
He also leans on routines to stay focused before games. “I listen to music, pray and go over the plays in my head,” he said.
Ritchie said his teammate Ty Garver has also played an important role in his development. “He always kept me away from the mistakes he made,” Ritchie said.
Through leadership, discipline and support from those around him, Ritchie continues to shape his legacy during his senior season.
