'Cliffy' is married to Samantha and the couple have a young child named Trey. He graduated from Carey and ROTC in 2007. Coach Nigel Boulton says he is "... extremely proud of Clifton. He is a hero and an example for all our players to follow. Clifton never gave less than 100% at everything he did while on our team. We salute him and pray for his safe return home along with all our soldiers overseas wherever they are". Clifton stays in touch with the Crusader's progress through e-mail and Facebook.