2006 All Star West
D.J. Ritz
Defensive Back
6’ 180
High School Coach: Jack Schugars
High School: Muskegon Oakridge, B
College: Northwood University
D.J. was a three-year starter for the Oakridge Eagles where he played numerous positions including tight end, outside and inside linebacker, strong safety, and quarterback. D.J. was a two-way player both h i s junior and senior seasons. During his sophomore season D.J. led the Eagles with 27 tackles for losses at his outside linebacker position as the Eagles finished as Division 5 state runners-up. During his junior season, D.J. lead the Eagles with 71 tackles, and during his senior season, D.J. lead the team to the Division 5 State Championship at Ford Field. D.J. is the all time leader in tackles for losses at 66.5 in his three-year varsity career.
D.J. also played baseball for the Eagles.
D.J. thanked his mom and dad, his brothers and sisters, Aunt Alice, Marcia Brichan (his first grade teacher,) his teammates, the Oakridge fans, and the Oakridge Coaching Staff for, “being there to love, support, and to give me the guidance that was needed.” D.J. will continue his academic and athletic career at Northwood University.
Awards
All West Michigan Conference Linebacker, 2004
All Conference Defensive Line, 2005
All Conference Quarterback, 2005
All Area 1st Team Defensive Line, Muskegon Chronicle, 2005
All State Class B Special Mention Linebacker, AP, 2005
All State Division 5 Defensive Line & Captain, Detroit News & Detroit Free Press, 2005
Division 5, Defensive Line, 2005