SAN MARCOS, TX — Ryan Riley has been selected as the next head cheer coach and spirit coordinator for the Texas State University spirit program, Bobcat Director of Athletics Don Coryell announced Monday afternoon. 

Riley, who previously served as an assistant spirit coach at Texas State for 15 months from June 2020 to September 2021, returns to San Marcos after serving as an assistant spirit programs coach at his alma mater Sam Houston State University for the last 11 months. 

As the assistant spirit programs coach at Sam Houston, Riley acted as the coach to the co-ed and all-girl cheerleading teams. He oversaw spirit groups of 150-plus student-athletes at games, practices, special events, and appearances. He also assisted in conducting fundraising activities for the program to continue programs growth. 
 
During his previous stint at Texas State, Riley planned, organized, and implemented the first-ever cheerleading athlete signing program. He also led the Bobcat's All-Girl squad to a top three finish at the 2021 UCA College Nationals. 
 
Since May 2021, Riley has been a speed camp instructor with the National Cheerleaders Association, where he creates choreography for various sections of routines including skills portions. He also works alongside athletes and coaches to build skills that leave a sense of pride. 
 
Following his graduation from Sam Houston, Riley spent a year working as an all-state elite team coach for Stars Vipers Cheer and Tumbling, where he collaborated with co-coaches in order to create and implement practice plans, routine changes and routine upgrades. 
 
Riley served as an administrative assistant intern at the Sam Houston State University Recreation Sports Fitness Center prior to his college graduation. 
 
Riley earned a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Exercise Science at Sam Houston State University in May 2020. He was a five-time large co-ed cheerleader during his time as a Bearkat, where he also earned a NCA National Championship in 2016. He also assisted in scheduling and registering for UCA college camp as well as creating practice schedules for all spirit teams. 
 
For the latest information on the team, follow @TXSTCheer on Twitter and Instagram. General athletic news can also be at @TxStateBobcats on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.