Ryan was a former varsity tennis player at Manitowoc Lincoln High School. “Coach Bob Feller remains the same head coach from my playing years and he got in touch with me,” Ryan notes. For Matt, softball runs in the family. “My dad’s family has played fastpitch softball for decades. In 2005, the head coach, who happens to be my uncle, asked me to help out for a couple of practices. I just kind of stuck around, and in 2013 I succeeded him as the Varsity Head Coach.”
For both men, giving back to the sports they love was a logical step. “Tennis has been a part of my life for many years. I played in both high school and college. Tennis is my outlet,” Ryan indicates. “When it comes to coaching, I love to see the progress from the start of the season to the end. I also get to know some pretty great players and work with our amazing coaching staff,” he adds.
Matt has a similar story, as he considers the privilege it is to work with the players and help them be their very best. “I really enjoy the game of softball, and coaching is an opportunity for me to give back and stay involved with my alma mater. I also get to work with a great group of players every spring. Watching them work hard, improve their skills, learn from their mistakes, and celebrate their successes is very rewarding,” he reflects.
This year the Lancer softball team enjoyed a record of 14-8 with a surprise run in the postseason, upsetting the top two seeds in the region. Their season ended with a 3-2 loss in the sectional final. The Ships tennis program was able to send their number one doubles team to the State Tournament this year.
With coaches like Matt and Ryan on their side, these young athletes are sure to go far. We’re fortunate to have them on the Roydan team as well!