Ritzenhein repeats as Gatorade Colorado Girls Cross Country Player of the Year

For the second consecutive year, Niwot High School’s Addison Ritzenhein has been named the Gatorade Colorado Girls Cross Country Player of the Year. The announcement, made by Gatorade on Jan. 16, highlighted the junior’s exceptional accomplishments both on and off the course, cementing her status as one of the nation’s premier high school athletes.

“It feels very honorable and exciting,” Ritzenhein said. “I’m very grateful to have received this two years in a row and couldn’t thank my coaches enough for getting me to this place in my running career.”

The award is a culmination of a stellar fall season that saw Ritzenhein dominate the cross country circuit. She capped off her year by breaking a two-year-old record at the 5A Colorado State Meet with a win, and finishing fifth at the Nike Cross Nationals in Portland, Oregon, earning her First Team All-America honors.

But for Ritzenhein, one moment stood above the rest. “My overall favorite was winning state,” she said. “State is always such a hard course, but you gain so much from it, and it is so special to be able to race with my teammates out on that course.”

The Gatorade Player of the Year award not only recognizes athletic excellence, but also highlights academic achievement and exemplary character. Ritzenhein embodies all three. “It’s amazing to see so many incredible athletes represented next to me,” she said. “It’s something that I’ll forever hold onto because it’s so special and incredible to represent Colorado for the Gatorade Player of the Year.”

Ritzenhein is the second athlete from Niwot High School to receive this honor twice, following Elise Cranny, who won the Gatorade Colorado Girls Cross Country Player of the Year award in both 2013 and 2014.

Ritzenhein is no stranger to the spotlight, as she comes from a family deeply rooted in running. Her father, Dathan Ritzenhein, is a three-time Olympian and one of the most decorated American distance runners in history. While her father’s achievements have undoubtedly influenced her, Addison has forged her own path in the sport, earning accolades many only dream of.

Behind her success is a disciplined approach to training and health. Ritzenhein credits her coach, Kelly Christensen, for his smart training plans and emphasizes her commitment to prioritizing sleep, nutrition, and injury prevention. “I believe prioritizing being healthy will lead to consistency,” she said. “I also focus on doing the little things like rolling out and lifting.”

Balancing the demands of being a student-athlete is no small feat, but Ritzenhein has found her rhythm. With a weighted 4.31 GPA, she juggles schoolwork, choir, and volunteering with the same determination she brings to the starting line.

“It can be overwhelming and challenging at times, but I find a good balance which allows me to be the best runner and student I can be,” she shared.

A key part of Ritzenhein’s success is the positive environment she has built with her team and support system. “My biggest support system doesn’t just rely on one person,” she said. “My coaches, family, and teammates are ultimately my biggest supporters, and they are always there for me.”

Ritzenhein’s dedication and focus extend to her mindset during races. “When I am running, I always try to have a calm approach,” she said. “When I am in the race, I don’t think about anything. I try to clear my head and not overthink. When I am coming down to the last stretch, I try to think of encouraging and motivating things to allow myself to go into another gear.”

Looking ahead, Ritzenhein has her sights set on even bigger goals. This spring, she aims to set new personal records in the mile, two-mile, and 800 meters. Next fall, as a senior, she hopes to podium at the Nike Cross Nationals.

Beyond high school, she is committed to continuing her running career at Northern Arizona University, a powerhouse in collegiate distance running. “From there, I have big goals and hope to run professionally,” she said.

To younger runners who hope to be in this position one day, Ritzenhein says, “Stay consistent, healthy, and always make sure you are having fun.”

Gatorade names a Player of the Year across 12 sports, in all 50 states and the District of Colombia, with only one athlete recognized for the national award in each sport. Last year, Ritzenhein was honored as the Gatorade National Girls Cross Country Player of the Year.

With her achievements, determination, and passion for the sport, Ritzenhein continues to inspire those around her and solidify her legacy as one of the top prep athletes in the country.