Andy Ryland is USA Football’s senior manager of education and training, and he has been with USA Football since 2010. He has consulted with programs at every level of competition and is widely recognized as a foremost expert on developing the fundamentals necessary for a successful shoulder tackle.
Ryland is a former Penn State linebacker and member of the U.S. Men’s Rugby team, and he is a primary instructor in the Advanced Tackling System. Ryland previously served as a Division 1 American football coach as well as working as a fitness coach in rugby. During his tenure with USA Football, Ryland became the lead clinician for USA Football’s in-person coach training events including its Coaching Certification and Football Development Model. Key initiatives spearheaded by Ryland throughout his time at USA Football include developing the Heads Up Football Program, training its Master Trainer Coach Educators, and the development of the Rookie Tackle game type that serves the FDM.
