Peyton Ritzert, a senior defensive back at Central College, has been selected for the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, an honor that spotlights college football players who combine athletic achievement with meaningful community contributions.
Service beyond the field
Ritzert’s service projects span continents and neighborhoods. Earlier this year he traveled to Antigua, Guatemala, with Imagine Guatemala to help construct a home for a local family. Back in Iowa, he spends weekly time at Third Church in Pella, lends his hands at The Well of Pella, and volunteers at the Pella Community Food Shelf and the Pella Wrestling Club. In addition, he serves on the leadership team of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, guiding younger players through mentorship and outreach.
Academic excellence and perseverance
Off the gridiron, Ritzert maintains a strong academic record, earning two‑time American Rivers Academic All‑Conference honors. His junior season was cut short by injury, but the setback has not dimmed his commitment to both scholarship and service.
Coaches and peers alike note his reliability and leadership, traits that have earned him respect from teammates such as Marc Poortinga, Stephen Barnes, Cory Nikkel, Jake Wassenaar and Cameron Bannister.