Andrew Ryland Explained

Andrew Ryland
Birth Date:8 March 1981
Height:6 ft 3 in
Weight:240 lb
School:State College High School
University:Pennsylvania State University
Position:Flanker
Repyears1:2005
Repcaps1:4
Reppoints1:0

Andrew Ryland (born March 8, 1981) is an American former international rugby union player.

Raised in State College, Pennsylvania, Ryland grew up one of seven siblings, four of whom were adopted amongst the numerous foster kids that his family took in over the years.[1] He was born with congenital defects in his right foot which left him with toes that do not touch the ground, for which he had to start wearing orthotics.[2]

Ryland, a three-year football letterman at State College High School, was a walk-on Penn State linebacker, later awarded a grant by coach Joe Paterno.[3] His father Terry coached the Penn State rugby team and he earned All-American honours playing under him in 2004. He was a flanker on the U.S. national team in 2005, gaining four caps.[4]

See also

Notes and References

  1. News: Lion secured by family ties . . November 20, 2003.
  2. News: Ryland perseveres despite deformity . . November 14, 2003.
  3. News: Love of the game . . September 6, 2003.
  4. Web site: Eagles squad named for Superpowers Cup . . en . May 18, 2005.