Ryan Clarke, a 16-year-old goalie from San Antonio, is rewriting what it means to be an ice hockey star in Texas. Despite hailing from a state where hockey is less prominent, Ryan’s dedication and exceptional talent have made him a standout player.
Ryan’s journey began at eight years old when his parents took him to a San Antonio Rampage game. Enthralled by the fast pace and physicality of hockey, he begged his parents to let him play. Under the mentorship of Coach Trent Watson, Ryan quickly grew from a wide-eyed beginner into one of the top goalies in the state.
What sets Ryan apart is his ability to perform under pressure. During this year’s state championship game, his team faced a relentless offensive assault in the final minutes. Ryan’s composure and quick reflexes resulted in a game-winning save that sealed the victory. “Coach always says, ‘Stay calm, stay focused,’” Ryan recalls. “That’s exactly what I did.”Outside the rink, Ryan is a straight-A student who is passionate about wildlife conservation. He volunteers at local shelters and hopes to combine his love for hockey and wildlife by studying sports medicine in college. His ultimate goal is to play in the NHL. “Hockey has given me everything,” he says. “Now, I want to give back.”
