Coach Ryan Cortez – In His Own Words
UW-Whitewater football has been a part of my life since I first stepped foot on campus in 2009.
I played linebacker for the Warhawks from 2009-2013, winning three national championships as a player and earning all-conference honors on three occasions. After my playing days were over, I knew I wanted to get into coaching ... more importantly, I knew I wanted to do it at UW-Whitewater.
I’ve been fortunate to serve in a multitude of roles since I joined the coaching staff in 2014. I started out as a graduate assistant coaching the linebackers and tight ends.
In 2017, I moved back to the defensive side of the ball and have been coaching the defensive line ever since. I’ve also been the defensive coordinator since 2021.
Football has always been a big part of my life, but even more than that, I love UW-Whitewater — the campus, the community, and the people.
I’ve been a Warhawk my entire adult life, and I can’t imagine being anywhere else.
Coaching philosophy
-------------------
When I look back on my time as a student-athlete, I am so grateful for all the people who have impacted my life. I had so many coaches and mentors who helped me grow as a player and as a person. They were there for me when I needed them most and helped me understand that football is more than just a game. It’s a way to learn about life and prepare for the future.
As a coach, that is my goal every day.
I want to be a resource for our guys and help them become the best versions of themselves. To me, it doesn’t matter if you’re an All-American or if you decide football isn’t for you after a year. I am here to help each young man reach his full potential on and off the field.
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of others, and I want to do everything I can to pay it forward.
Away from the field
-------------------
When I’m not coaching or recruiting, I try to spend as much time as I can with my family.
My wife, Ashley, is my rock, and we have three kids — Roman, Carter, and Drae. They are my heart and soul. I also love going back home to Palatine, Illinois, whenever I get a chance. My parents and sister still live there, and I always enjoy going back to visit.
Home is where the heart is, and I’m so blessed to have two places that I can call home.
Palatine is where I’m from, and it will always be a special place to me, but Whitewater is where I’ve spent the last 14 years of my life. I’ve lived here, went to school here, and now I work here. I’m also an instructor, in addition to my coaching duties, and I love being a part of the campus community.
I’m a Warhawk through and through, and I’m so thankful to be able to call Whitewater home.
Education: Health and Human Performance BS (UW-Whitewater ‘13); Higher Education MS (UW-Whitewater)
Playing Experience: UW-Whitewater 2009-13 – Linebacker (three national championships)
Coaching Experience: UW-Whitewater 2014-present (linebackers, tight ends, defensive line, defensive coordinator)
