Jim Ryan begins his second season as defensive line coach and recruiting coordinator for the Washington University in St. Louis football program.

Ryan arrived on the Danforth Campus after spending five seasons as the defensive coordinator at Illinois College in Jacksonville, Ill.

Prior to his arrival at Illinois College, he served as the linebacker coach and defensive coordinator at Colorado College in 2002. Ryan was also a graduate assistant coach at Delta State University in 2001, and served on the staffs at North Alabama and Fort Lewis colleges.

Ryan is a 2000 graduate of Colorado State University – Pueblo with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology. He is currently working on a master’s degree in physical education and sport management from the University of Central Missouri.

Ryan is a certified strength and conditioning specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association and is a member of the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) as a member of the assistant coaches committee. He is married to Laura Sauer.

Quick Facts About Ryan

Years at WU: One

Previous coaching experience:
2003-08: Defensive coordinator, Illinois College
2002-03: Defensive coordinator and Interim Head Coach, Colorado College
2002: Graduate assistant coach, University of North Alabama
2001-02: Graduate assistant coach, Delta State University
2000-01: Defensive line coach, Ft. Lewis College
1999-2000: Defensive line coach, Colorado College
1995-98: Varsity assistant offensive and defensive line coach, Canon City High School

Education:
Bachelor's degree in kinesiology from Colorado State University – Pueblo, 2000; Pursuing a master's degree in physical education and sports management from University of Central Missouri.

Family:
Married to Laura Sauer.