Defender Ryan Hollingshead was drafted by FC Dallas in the 2nd round of the 2013 MLS SuperDraft. The FC Dallas veteran has had an immeasurable effect on generations of players and has played a large role in creating our club's culture.
1. Philanthropic Heart
Ryan is an important figure in the FC Dallas community. In 2017 he was named MLS WORKS Humanitarian of the Year after putting his career and life on the line to help a stranded car on the highway. In 2013 Ryan opted to skip his rookie season to help build a church in his hometown of Sacramento with his brother.
2. Family Man
Hollingshead is a known family man. When it comes to prioritizing, family always comes first. Ryan is often seen posting his kids at home and sharing parenting advice on his Instagram. The Hollingshead clan always shows up to support their dad whether at practice or for match days.
3. Beliefs and Perseverance
Ryan has always been proud to carry a Christian faith. At the age of 26, Ryan was struck by a car that left him with a broken neck. His faith and perseverance helped him make his MLS return one hundred and twenty-eight days after the accident. Read more about it HERE.
4. Decorated Honors
Before Ryan got drafted in 2013, he received multiple awards for his talent in soccer. In high school he was a letterman all four years, and a two sport athlete. Throughout his college career he was named to the NCAA All-Tournament team in 2011, as well as Pac-12 Player of the Year and first-team All-Pac-12 selection. He earned All-Academic honors and Capital One Academic All-America honors. Since he joined FC Dallas he has become a versatile piece of the roster. He was voted the 2019 MVP by FC Dallas fans.
5. Food For the Soul
Ryan’s favorite local restaurant is Uchi, a Japanese restaurant located in the Arts District of Dallas. When asked about his favorite food though, he was quick to respond that his wife's tortellini soup topped the list. Ryan also enjoys the sweeter things in life like Oreos and Peanut M&Ms.
