Beyond The Trophy: Get to know Penn Chapter leader and defensive lineman Grant Ristoff

Each week during the college football season we will feature a player who is an officer for an Uplifting Athletes Chapter for our Beyond the Trophy series.

Get To Know Grant Ristoff from the University of Pennsylvania: The senior defensive lineman from California saw his first collegiate action in 2021, appearing in nine games and recording eight tackles. This season Grant is a regular in the defensive line rotation and not only does he have 16 tackles through seven games, he recorded his first career sack in the season opener against Colgate and has also blocked a kick. Grant stepped into a leadership role for the Penn Chapter in 2021, he participated in the annual Leadership Development Conference and attended the Young Investigator Draft celebration earlier this year. Grant played an instrumental role in the Penn Chapter continuing to inspire people impacted by rare diseases with hope by holding their annual Lift For Life in the spring.

What is your most memorable experience as a college athlete?

RISTOFF: Running out of the tunnel for the first time at home since COVID-19.

What drove you to get involved with Uplifting Athletes?

RISTOFF: I joined Uplifting Athletes because of my family’s experience with rare diseases. My aunt was afflicted with a rare form of cancer, and I wanted to give back to the community who helped her during her struggle.

Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know?

RISTOFF: I enjoy learning about linguistics in my spare time.

What is the one piece of advice you would give a high school player with aspirations to play college sports?

RISTOFF: Give every rep all you have. Hard work will always pay off. And, if life doesn’t go your way, you will be happy knowing you truly gave it your all.

If you could play another sport, what would it be and why?

RISTOFF: Golf. I just love how peaceful the game is and how much professionals are able to travel when they play.

Who is your favorite athlete and why?

RISTOFF: Aaron Donald. His work ethic, determination, and his ability to be better than what anyone thought he could.

HOT SEAT QUESTIONS

What one word best describes you?

RISTOFF: Happy

Favorite sports team (any sport)?

RISTOFF: Los Angeles Rams

What is your perfect pizza? 

RISTOFF: Pepperoni & Sausage

What is your go-to fast food restaurant?

RISTOFF: Chick-fil-A

What interests or hobbies do you have outside of sports?

RISTOFF: Guitar, piano, cooking and learning about language