NAOTB: Shea Ryan
Jackson Osborn, Texas A&M Athletics Communications
12thMan.com chatted with Shea Ryan, an game-changing forward from Roseville, California. The talented attacker arrived in Aggieland after a season at Kansas.
What was your first impression of Texas A&M when you stepped on campus?
It felt like a real community. I could feel the pressure of the 12th Man, especially at our first game. The atmosphere was totally different from my last school, and everyone being a family here really stood out.
How’s the culture at A&M compared to what you expected before coming here?
It’s 10 times more than I expected. Everyone talks about the atmosphere, and I completely agree—it’s a family, and I feel supported from every side of the field.
What’s the biggest difference between life in Kansas and here in Aggieland?
There’s a lot more to do here, and the 12th Man makes everything a whole new experience. The team atmosphere, the coaches, and the belief we have in every player—whether starting or coming off the bench—sets the standard. That’s the biggest difference.
Has there been an Aggie tradition that stood out to you so far?
The yells have definitely been different from what I was used to, but I love them. Learning all of them and hearing them during games has been so much fun.
What’s been the biggest soccer adjustment for you playing in the SEC compared to the Big 12?
The physicality and the speed of play. It’s a big difference, but I love it.
How do you feel your style of play fits into Coach G’s system at A&M?
I can use my strength in different ways, holding the ball up as a 9 or going out wide and using my speed. I think I have a lot of qualities that let me play across the front line and make dangerous runs.
What part of your game has grown the most since arriving here?
Being able to step into the midfield and act as a transitional player to help move the ball into the next line.
Have your teammates helped you adapt both on and off the field?
Being a transfer can be challenging, but everyone here is great. It feels like I’ve been here since my first year..
With a growing presence of California players on the Texas A&M roster, is there a different style of play they bring to the team?
California and Texas mesh pretty well. A lot of us bring technical skill along with strength, and our Texas players are incredible also.
With your experience playing semi-pro before college, how do you think that’s helped you prepare for the level at A&M?
Playing against older players as a young player was definitely a challenge, but it helped me adapt quickly. Knowing they supported me just as much as I supported them was a big boost.
What personal goals have you set for yourself this season?
I want to come in and make a difference. I want to help create a team atmosphere where everyone can step on the field and contribute. Personally, I want to give my best every single day.
If you were to describe yourself as a player to someone who’s never watched you before, how would you describe yourself?
I’d compare myself to Erling Haaland—his technique, his work ethic. I like to bring a presence on the field that people want to watch.
What’s your major and your future career ambitions?
I’m a telecommunications media, digital media major. I want to own my own soccer facility that combines training, rehab, and media, and I’d also love to do digital media on the side.
What does it mean to you to personally wear the Texas A&M jersey?
I didn’t grow up an Aggie, but I want my family to be Aggies now. Wearing “Texas A&M” on our backs instead of our names means a lot. It represents something bigger than me, and I’m so blessed to be part of it..
What are you eating when you get back to California?
Costa Vidas pulled pork tacos and enchiladas. Those are my favorites.
What’s your go-to pregame music?
I always listen to ‘I Thank God’ by Maverick City Music and UPPERROOM, but before we come out we always listen to ‘Power’ as a team.
