Do you know what a high school athlete aims to become? Obviously, their goal isn’t to become an athletic celebrity, as they haven’t yet transitioned into the professional ranks. Prior to that, they must secure admission into a reputable college to compete in the NCAA. The league shapes many aspiring track and field athletes into fully fledged packages that can achieve gold medals in major events, and who would want to miss this kind of opportunity as a junior athlete?

Every year, numerous high school graduates seek admission to major colleges. This time, a popular university has shown interest in a prodigy, particularly an NXN champion, and has taken them under their wing. They, along with the entire track and field community, are excited about this new journey in their aspiring careers.

Looking forward to a great start in the NCAA track and field

Who said a high schooler can’t be an Olympic champion? Quincy Wilson needs to talk to them. However, not everyone is a 16-year-old prodigy, as they have their own path to success. Indeed, Quincy’s hard work has made him a remarkable athlete, but there are many other high school athletes who have achieved success in major leagues such as the NCAA.

Addison Ritzenhein is one of the latest additions who will be joining the track and field scene at Northern Arizona University. She created a lot of noise when she crossed the finish line at the Nike Cross Nationals Final in 17:10.40, bringing the Cougars to a runner-up finish overall. Taking to Instagram, the young athlete wrote a heartfelt caption, stating, “I am so beyond excited and grateful to announce my verbal commitment to Northern Arizona University to further pursue my athletic and academic career! I want to thank family, friends, and coaches for getting me here and Coach Cornfield for giving me this amazing opportunity as a lumberjack! GO LUMBERJACKS 💙💛🪓”

Ritzenhein is indeed proud of herself as she prepares for the next phase of her athletic career. The NAU has produced numerous athletes in recent years, which motivates Ritzenhein to pursue a professional career in the coming years, once she completes her college tenure. Furthermore, no accolade would be achievable without the love and support that she has received on her journey, and she’s grateful for it, acknowledging many important people in her life.

The new addition to the Lumberjacks is ready to make her team proud the moment she sets foot on the track, and she’s glad to be a part of the university, owing to gratitude toward the associate head coach, Jarred Cornfield. Indeed, the same social media post was also shared by the coach, as he’s grateful to have such an amazing talent on his team. But how did the track and field community react to this announcement? 

Fans are excited for her as well

Watching such talents turn into aspiring collegiate athletes is a sight to behold for the fans. Who knows, they might be watching a future world champion in the making. Only time can tell. One fan shared their congratulations, stating, “Congratulations Addy!!!” Another fan is already looking forward to their time at Northern Arizona University, stating, “So so excited to have you here 💙💛” Similarly, one fan stated, “So excited for you Addy🤩🤩”

But what makes Addison so special? She is the daughter of Dathan Ritzenhein, a three-time Olympian who has raced in events such as the 10,000m and the marathon. Indeed, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. However, Addy has achieved numerous accolades in her career due to her exceptional abilities. Apart from athletics, she’s also a stellar student and has maintained a 4.33 weighted GPA in the classroom.

So speed with brains? Absolutely! She’s a package for Northern Arizona University, and they are welcoming her with open arms, leaving fans excited, as one left a comment that read, “YAY!!! Congrats👏👏 So beyond deserving girl.” Another fan can’t wait for her to run in an event, stating, “I can’t wait to see what your future holds as a lumberjack!”

The Lumberjacks may have tapped into a generational talent, but it was her high school accolades that set the stage for the major challenge that awaits her once she enrolls in college. The NCAA scene surely welcomes many aspiring athletes, but only a few of them take it to the next level. Keeping this in mind, Addison will aim high from the moment she sets foot on the track.