by Derrick Smith

Role models can play a big role in the lives of high school student athletes. Whether it is a professional athlete, a celebrity, or someone a little closer to home, the impact that a these people can have on the student’s life can be big. Riley Ammerman says that his biggest role model is someone he has looked up to most of his life.

“My mom is the biggest influence on my life,” he said. “She is always there for me, no matter what is going on or what I choose to do. She has always been my biggest cheerleader and I am thankful for that.”

Riley is a junior at Nowata High School, where he is a multi sport athlete. He plays middle linebacker and right tackle for the Ironmen football team. He has played football for eight years and he has come a long way from where he was when he first started playing. Ammerman also runs track and is a member of the school’s weightlifting team.

Nowata’s head football coach, Graham Snelding says that he has seen a lot of improvement in Ammerman and says he is one of the teams better players.
“He came on strong at linebacker,” he said. “He has also made great strides in the weight room and the track. He has developed into one of our best leaders.”

Becoming the player that he is today has not been easy, but Ammerman says that the work will pay off in time.

“I have put in a lot of hard work to get where I am today,” Riley said. “In order to be successful, you also have to have the will to learn and be coached. Those are the things that have helped me become the athlete I am.”

Ammerman says that there is another person that has helped him along the way and become the athlete and person he is. 

“Coach Enloe has taught me a lot,” he said. “He has helped me become a leader and a great person, both on and off the field.”

Along with sports, Riley is a member of the National Honor Society.