Ryne Shadbolt – Class of 2026
Fulton High School | Fulton, MO
Every once in a while, a senior session comes along that feels different—more personal, more meaningful. Photographing Ryne Shadbolt was one of those moments for me.
I first met Ryne in 2018 when he joined the Fulton Flash youth running program. At the time, I was just beginning my own journey as a coach, figuring out how to teach, encourage, and build confidence in young runners. Ryne was one of the very first kids I ever coached, and even then, his commitment was already evident. Like many of the young athletes I’ve had the privilege to coach, he showed up with a willingness to push himself, to listen, and to embrace the process.
It’s been a privilege watching Ryne grow—not just as a runner, but as a young man. I’ve kept up with his progress through the years, from middle school races to the moment he punched his ticket to the State Cross Country Meet as a junior. That qualifying performance remains one of the major highlights of his high school experience.
“Qualifying for state in cross country my junior year.”
But Ryne’s story doesn’t stop at the finish line. He’s earned straight A’s in all of his classes, reflecting the same discipline and focus he brought to practices and meets. As he prepares for life after high school, Ryne has his eyes set on studying computer science in college—another challenge he’s more than ready to meet.
When asked about who’s influenced him the most, Ryne pointed to someone who’s been by his side all along:
“My dad has inspired me to always work hard and strive to complete my goals.”
That mindset — a blend of quiet confidence, hard work, and big-picture perspective — is exactly what sets Ryne apart. And it shows in the advice he offers to younger students just beginning their high school journey:
“Get involved. It will help you increase your enjoyment of high school and it will keep you motivated.”
Ryne, it’s been an honor getting to play even a small part in your journey—from those early Fulton Flash days to this milestone moment as a senior. Watching you step into this next chapter with the same steady drive and humility is something special. I can’t wait to see where your talents and work ethic take you next—and I’ll be cheering you on every step of the way.