In college football, success is often measured by more than just yards gained, and points scored. It requires program management, resource allocation, and strategic decision-making—all skills Ryan Day '02, head coach of The Ohio State University Buckeyes, developed while studying Business Administration at the University of New Hampshire.
Day has risen to national prominence, guiding the Buckeyes from the sidelines of "The Horseshoe." But before he became a Buckeye, he was a Wildcat.
A Manchester native, Day was a standout quarterback for UNH football from 1999-2001, setting nine program records and ranking among the all-time leaders in passing yards and touchdowns.
Recently returning to Durham as the commencement speaker for Paul College, Day shared how his time at UNH—and his business education—prepared him for the complexities of coaching at the highest level.
Deciding to Major in Business Administration
My family was in hospitality. My grandfather worked with Omni Hotels, grew up in the Dunphy Hotels, and worked at Town and Campus when it opened here in the 1940s. He continued in the hospitality area, and then my uncle got into hospitality, so I thought I was going to do that part of it. But I wanted a broader stroke. So, I went with business and figured that somewhere along the line, I would find my path.
Ryan Day discusses his decision to major in business administration at UNH.
Favorite Part of the UNH Student Experience
Football was a big part of it for me. I remember waking up in the morning and walking across campus to get to workouts, then going over and having breakfast across the street by the train station, and then heading to class for the day. I used to sleep well at night because I woke up early in the morning and put in a hard day's work.
I remember a lot of the camaraderie and the friendships that continue today.
What it Means to be Part of the UNH Football Family
Coach (Bill) Bowes took a chance on me, and I’ll never forget that, and Coach (Sean) McDonnell and Coach (Chip) Kelly had huge impacts on my recruiting. Coach Kelly, particularly because he’s from my hometown, and he challenged me to become a Wildcat.
Once I got here, I realized there was so much pride in the program from the coaches and players and being from New Hampshire really mattered to me and motivated me a little more.
Ryan Day discusses the importance of UNH football.
Best Football Memory: The 31-3 Comeback Against #2 Delaware in 2000
I just remember at the end of the game, just the sense of joy. It was almost like bewilderment, like, how did that just happen? I would say that was one of the times where I kind of felt like I was in the zone because it was kind of a blur.
I don’t really remember playing in that early fourth quarter and the first couple overtimes, I remember kind of snapshots, but just found the flow.
Coming Home to Deliver Paul College’s Commencement Address
UNH has a lot to offer in terms of the campus and the connections you make here. The degree that you earn allows you an opportunity to do great things.
Click here to watch Ryan Day’s commencement speech.
