At Claremont-Mudd-Scripps, athletics are more than just a way to compete - they're a foundational part of a transformative college experience. For the Zitar family, CMS is not only where they played, but where they grew as students, leaders, and lifelong friends. From Kevin Zitar (CMC '96, P'26, Men's Basketball) to Kirsti Zitar (CMC '97, P'26, Women's Soccer, Tennis, and Track & Field) to their daughter Riley Zitar (CMC '26, Women's Soccer), their story spans generations and is woven deeply into the fabric of Claremont McKenna College.
  Roots in Ducey Gym: Kevin and Kirsti's Start
 A Claremont native and Ducey Gym regular, Kevin Zitar launched the family legacy in 1992. Recruited by Coach David Wells, Kevin found more than a team - he found a community. "The team becomes your fraternity and lifelong brotherhood," he says. "I still talk to my teammates all the time. Playing a team sport is great training for real life."

His time at CMC also helped shape his academic direction. Originally a chemistry major, Kevin found his fit in economics after taking Econ 50 with Professor Jerry Eyrich. "We swapped lab goggles for hot dog charts," he jokes, "and it helped solidify my career path."

A year later, Kirsti arrived from Seattle, drawn by CMC's rare combination of strong academics and competitive Division III athletics. As a Human Biology and Anthropology dual major, her academic journey was marked by unforgettable experiences, like studying human cadavers in anatomy class and participating in an archaeological dig in Jamaica. "It was an incredible opportunity, especially coming from a small liberal arts college," she reflects.
  Carving Her Own Path: Riley Zitar '26
Now a rising senior, Riley continues the tradition, but on her own terms. A Psychology and Philosophy major, she found academic inspiration in Forensic Psychology with Professor Krauss. "It really helped me figure out what area of psych I'm passionate about," she shares.

On the field, Riley has made her mark as part of a dominant Athenas soccer squad, contributing to a SCIAC Championship win over Pomona-Pitzer last season, including an assist on a 30-yard free kick for the game-winning goal. It was a moment that brought the entire Zitar family together. "My dad was blowing a vuvuzela, my mom was there for a postgame hug, it was surreal. That moment will stick with me forever."
  Across Generations, a Common Bond
What ties their experiences together isn't just the scarlet and gold. All three Zitar athletes also worked for CMS Athletics - Kevin and Kirsti in the equipment room with Brian Smith, and Riley in the athletic training room under Steve Graves, the same athletic trainer who helped both her parents.

"It's wild to see how many of the same people are still here and still shaping student-athletes' lives," says Riley.

From Tommy's Burgers after basketball games at Occidental to Halloween scrimmages in costume, the Zitar family has countless memories. But the biggest takeaway from all three? The people.

"It's about more than just the wins," Kirsti explains. "It's about the teammates who become family, the coaches who believe in you, and the support system that lifts you up when things don't go as planned."
  A Home Off the Field and in the Classroom
Claremont McKenna's small, close-knit environment allowed each member of the Zitar family to pursue more than athletics. "The CMS and CMC experience gave me confidence in the classroom and a solid foundation for life," says Kevin. Kirsti adds, "Being a student-athlete taught me how to collaborate, to persevere, and to show up for others, on and off the pitch."

Riley, who regularly hosts her teammates for home-cooked meals just blocks from campus, sees the academic-athletic balance as a hallmark of CMS life. "The staff and professors really care about us as whole people. That support makes a huge difference when you're juggling it all."
  Advice for the Future - and One Word That Sums It Up
For future student-athletes considering CMS, the Zitar family offers a shared message: this is a place where you can push yourself - on the field, in the classroom, and beyond. "You get a world-class education and play for the love of the game," Kevin says. Kirsti adds, "You'll find a tight-knit, supportive community that stays with you long after graduation."

 So how would they sum it up in one word?

• Kevin: Impactful
• Kirsti: 'Sconas!
• Riley: Brilliant! - Coach David Nolan

3 Athletes, 2 Generations, 1 extraordinary CMS legacy that's still unfolding - on the field, in the classroom, and across generations.