Author Archives: Henry Hickman

Journal of a Youth Coach 2023: Playoffs and end of the season

USA Football Senior Manager of Education and Engagement Andy Ryland recently volunteered to be an assistant coach for his local youth football team. A former Penn State linebacker and member of the U.S. Men’s Rugby National Team, Ryland is an expert on tackling and preparation for contact with athletes, consistent with USA Football’s Football Development Model. He […]

Journal of a Youth Coach: Final takeaways for youth coaches

USA Football Senior Manager of Education and Engagement Andy Ryland recently volunteered to be an assistant coach for his 8-year-old son’s Rookie Tackle youth football team. A former Penn State linebacker and member of the U.S. Men’s Rugby National Team, Ryland is an expert on tackling and preparation for contact with athletes, consistent with USA Football’s Football Development […]

Parent Perspectives: Watching my child learn the game the right way

The following is a first-hand account of a family’s rookie season (2021) in youth tackle football, written through the eyes of a loving father. USA Football’s Football Development Model (FDM), created with insight from leaders across football and health, spanning The Ivy League to Children’s National Hospital, melds the timeless joy of playing the sport […]