Standout Spartans: Matthew Ruiz '25 and Ryan Tyndall '25

One Saturday each month, Matthew Ruiz ’25 and Ryan Tyndall ’25 participate in Henrico Fire Explorer Post 651 training. Under the guidance of Henrico County firefighters, Matthew and Ryan learn skills such as first aid, CPR, water safety, search and rescue, and how to extinguish fires. 

Mathew, who has been an Explorer since 2022, enjoys taking part in community service events held by the Henrico Division of Fire. He has volunteered to administer first aid on Halloween at Kings Dominion; assisted local Emergency Medical Services, Basic Life Support, and Advanced Life Support providers at NASCAR; and he has volunteered during community clean-up events around Richmond. At Steward, he is a member of the Leadership Program and Robotics Club. 

Ryan joined Fire Explorers as an eighth grader in 2021. In addition to learning rescue skills and team leadership, he has volunteered to work in support of fire and EMS at multiple community events. He ushered family members at a Fallen Firefighters Memorial service, provided first aid at a NASCAR race, and greeted community members at the grand opening of Henrico's Fire Station #20. Last September, he honored firefighters lost on 9/11 by climbing 110 floors of steps, representing the 110 floors of the World Trade Center. At Steward, Ryan mentors campers as a Spartan Counselor Apprentice for the Summer Experience, is on the Honor Council, and plays lacrosse. 

We’re so proud of you, Matthew and Ryan!