Hobart and William Smith Colleges Athletics

One of the most prolific scorers in program history, Ricky Klotz left an enduring mark on Hobart soccer through his dynamic play, relentless competitiveness, and unmatched ability to deliver in clutch moments.

A high-scoring striker with a nose for goal, Klotz earned three all-region awards, establishing himself as one of the most feared offensive players in the Northeast. He finished his remarkable career second on the program’s all-time lists for both goals (42) and points (96). His four-year career included 83 matches, during which he also added 12 assists.

Klotz remains one of the most decorated forwards in program history, earning first team All–Liberty League honors twice, and leading the Statesmen, and ranking second in the conference, in scoring. His reputation for delivering when it mattered most is reflected in his 18-career game-winning goals, the highest total in program history at the time and still one of the top marks today.

Klotz’s dominance was especially evident during his junior and senior seasons, when he produced back-to-back campaigns of 14 goals and 33 points. Both totals remain among the best in program history. Klotz’s 33-point seasons stand seventh on the individual single-season list, while his 14 goals are tied for fifth. His six game-winning goals in both 2003 and 2004 still rank first on the program’s single-season chart, and his five game-winners in 2002 are tied for fourth.

Known for his ability to take over matches, he recorded memorable hat tricks against Skidmore and Alfred, further cementing his standing as one of Hobart’s most reliable offensive threats. Klotz’s teammates and coaches honored his leadership and competitive spirit, naming him the 2004 Stephen R. Murphy ’77 Memorial Award winner as team MVP, one year after he earned the Geoffrey S. Perselay ’75 Award as the team’s most inspirational player.

Just as impressive as his on-field résumé was Klotz’s commitment to excellence in the classroom. A model scholar-athlete, he became the first Hobart soccer player to earn ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America honors in 2004. He was also named a Statesmen Scholar and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics, exemplifying the balance of academic integrity and athletic achievement that defines Hobart’s greatest competitors.

After graduating from Hobart in 2005, Klotz went on to obtain a master’s and doctorate from Cornell University.