“Ryder Evans is the definition of a program kid.” That’s how Valliant second-year coach Joe Jones describes the young sophomore linebacker and tight end. “He does things right on and off the field and is self-motivated to get better every day and has a strong work ethic. He’s a good football player but an even better student and person. He’s the kind of person that everyone in education from coaches to teachers to administrators sees as a perfect student,” said Jones. Ryder has an older brother that played football, but the bug didn’t really bite him until a friend talked him into giving it a try in the sixth grade. “One of my buddies came to me in sixth grade and talked me into playing and I’ve loved it ever since. I like the family you build around you playing football and just having a good time with your friends,” said Evans. Making the move from middle school to high school is sometimes daunting for a young player but Ryder says it wasn’t much of a problem for him. “It wasn’t all that different for me though there is obviously a lot more pressure in the games. I think it was easier too because I was already friends with most of the players and that helped me fit right in.” Ryder started right away on offense but subbed in and out on defense his freshman year which is where he picked up a special moment. “It was our homecoming game last year against Spiro and I had a pick six and we scored the most points ever (62) in a game. I prefer playing defense because I like the physical contact part the most and I don’t have to worry about anything except finding the football and making the tackle.” Growing up on a farm, Ryder has also been active in FFA where he has shown cattle in the past. He credits one of his teammates, Gavin Chavez, as being a role model. “I like his work ethic and he’s always there for you,” said Evans. As he gets ready to go into the 2025 season, a goal of Ryder’s is to become more disciplined and listen better to the coaches. “Ryder is a guy that doesn’t just show up for practice-he puts in real work to improve himself and his team,” said coach Jones.
