Caleb Craig is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Canyon View High School for AZPreps365.com

Canyon View wide receiver Ryder Geith has faced hardships that few athletes could imagine.

From losing his mom, Alyson, to cancer in 2023 to suffering a season-ending torn ACL, the senior has every reason to be discouraged. But that is not who he is.

 “He has every reason to be upset with the world,” said first-year Canyon View coach J.R. Alcantar. “But he’s not. He still shows up, leads by example on and off the field.”

Ryder’s story extends past football. It’s about the person he has become, the support of the people who have been by his side, and the impact he’s had on others.

Ryder credits his mom for shaping him into the person he is today.

“My mom was the biggest influence on me growing up,” Ryder said. “She taught me how to be a good role model to my brother and sister and how to be a good person.”

Ryder’s dad, Jamie Geith, sees similar traits between Ryder and his mom that encompass resiliency. He specifically noticed the similarity during the game Ryder tore his ACL.

“That night he was sick with a cold,” Jamie said. “He’s like his mom. He’s not going to tell you that he’s not feeling well and will do anything to play.”

Ryder emphasizes how much his dad is there for him and his siblings.

“My dad has been nothing but supportive, and he’s really stepped up,” Ryder said. “The biggest thing he teaches me is being respectful and how important first impressions are.”

Following Ryder’s sophomore season at Shadow Ridge, he transferred to Canyon View, searching for a more compatible fit.

Ryder moved between a lot of schools growing up and finally felt he found his niche at Canyon View.

“Canyon View has been the best school I’ve been at,” Ryder said. “Everyone’s been so welcoming. I haven’t had any problems, and I wish I had transferred earlier.”

Canyon View’s collective effort to be there for Ryder has resonated with Jamie.

“I can’t be more grateful for the support, love and care that Canyon View gives to Ryder and even his little brother and sister,” Jamie said. “He has really close friends on the team, and the coaches are amazing.”

Jamie feels proud when the parents in the stands speak highly of Ryder.

“Ryder’s a newer kid at the school, but people seem to know him well,” he said. “I don’t know too many people at the school, but as soon as I say I’m Ryder’s dad, they know exactly who I am and have the best things to say about him.”