San Antonio’s Southside is home to a very special community of creators, hard workers, and people that inspire–many of which own small businesses in and around the Southside. The Southside Makers and Shakers blog series showcases these unique businesses and their owners. Each addition to the series offers new insight into the community and the gente that make the Southside so unique.
Just steps away from VIDA San Antonio, Texas A&M-San Antonio is on track to become the second-largest in the A&M system. This month, we’re spotlighting Ryanne Limón—a proud first-generation graduate and a trailblazer who helped launch A&M-San Antonio’s inaugural softball team. Her journey reflects the spirit of perseverance, progress, and pride that defines both the university and Southside community.
Texas A&M-San Antonio softball player, Ryanne Limon
Tell us about yourself and your background.
I was born and raised in San Antonio, with deep family roots on the Southside. Both of my parents are from this area, and much of my extended family still lives nearby. When it came time to choose a college, it was important for me to remain close to home and stay connected to my community. I enrolled at Texas A&M University-San Antonio in 2020, the same year the university launched its softball program. I graduated last year with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration, with plans to graduate in spring 2026.
How did you get started in sports?
Athletics have always been a big part of my life. I started playing sports at the age of six, inspired by my older siblings who were involved in multiple sports, including softball, soccer, and basketball. My parents encouraged all of us to stay active, and through exploring different activities, I discovered that softball was where I truly excelled and found the most passion.
Why did you choose A&M-San Antonio to continue your academic and athletic journey?
I was drawn to A&M-San Antonio because it offered the rare opportunity to be part of a new athletic program while staying close to family. The university’s values, location, and vision aligned with my goals, and I was excited to be part of something from the ground up. Being in my hometown allowed me to pursue my education while maintaining the strong family support system that’s been so important to me.
What makes the Southside of San Antonio special to you?
The Southside is constantly evolving, and it’s rewarding to see its growth year after year. While the Southside is changing and developing in its way, it is still preserving a strong sense of community and pride that I’ve grown up with. I take great pride in representing this part of San Antonio and contributing to its continued progress.
Photo credit: @nava_fotoss_ on Instagram
You were part of the very first group of student-athletes at A&M-San Antonio. What did that experience mean to you?
It was a tremendous honor to be part of the inaugural softball team. We started during the challenges of the pandemic, practicing on a dirt field before the program had formal facilities. To see the university preparing to open a new stadium next fall is incredibly fulfilling. I’m proud to have played a role in building the foundation of the athletics program and contributing to something that will impact future generations of student-athletes.
How have you seen the athletics program grow since you started? What impact do you believe you’ve had?
Since the program’s inception, there has been significant progress with new facilities, increased recognition, and performance. A defining moment was when our team advanced to regionals in only our third year. That achievement brought attention to the potential of A&M-San Antonio Athletics and set a standard for future teams. I believe my teammates and I helped establish a strong culture and work ethic that will serve as a model moving forward.
In what ways has being a student-athlete shaped you, both personally and professionally?
Being a student-athlete taught me time management, resilience, and discipline. Balancing academics, athletics, and part-time work wasn’t easy, but it helped me grow immensely. I learned to stay focused on my goals, persevere through challenges, and develop leadership skills that will benefit me long after graduation.
What does being a Jaguar mean to you?
Being a Jaguar represents opportunity, community, and growth. The support I’ve received from the university, especially as a first-generation college student, has been invaluable. My time here has been defined by strong relationships with professors, coaches, and peers, all of whom have helped shape my academic and personal development.
What advice would you give to future student-athletes at A&M-San Antonio?
Remain focused on your long-term goals, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Build a strong support system among teammates, coaches, and professors; it truly makes a difference. And most importantly, take full advantage of the opportunities you’re given, both in the classroom and on the field.
What are your plans after graduation, and what inspired that path?
After completing my master’s degree, I plan to attend Athletic Training school. Having experienced injuries during my athletic career, I’ve developed a strong desire to support and advocate for other athletes in their recovery journeys. I’ll be interning with the university’s athletic trainers next year to gain hands-on experience and further prepare for that path.