Ryan Day, the head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes football team, and his wife, Nina Day, share a remarkable journey that began in their childhood and has evolved into a partnership marked by resilience, advocacy, and family. Their relationship, which started on a T-ball field in Manchester, New Hampshire, has become a testament to enduring love and shared purpose.
Ryan and Nina Day’s story began in the mid-1980s when they were both part of the same youth T-ball team. Nina, then seven years old, and Ryan, six, played together in Manchester, New Hampshire. This early connection laid the foundation for a deep-rooted friendship that would blossom into a lifelong partnership. They attended the same schools throughout their youth, including the University of New Hampshire, where Ryan played football. Despite their shared history, their romantic relationship didn’t commence until after college. In June 2005, they married, solidifying their bond both personally and professionally.
The Days’ journey as a family has been characterized by constant movement and adaptation. Ryan’s coaching career took them to various locations, including Boston College, Temple University, and the NFL teams Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers. Over a span of 15 years, they relocated 11 times, a testament to their commitment to Ryan’s career and their family’s adaptability. Throughout these transitions, Nina has been a steadfast supporter, ensuring stability and continuity for their three children: Ryan Jr. (R.J.), Grace, and Ourania (Nia). R.J., following in his father’s footsteps, is a quarterback at DeSales High School in Columbus, Ohio.
A pivotal aspect of the Days’ shared mission is their advocacy for mental health awareness. This cause became especially significant following the tragic loss of Ryan’s father to suicide when Ryan was just eight years old. This personal experience has driven Ryan to speak openly about mental health challenges, aiming to reduce stigma and encourage others to seek help. In 2022, the Days made a $1 million donation to establish the Nina and Ryan Day Resilience Fund at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. This fund supports research and services promoting mental health, particularly among young adults.
Nina has also shared her own struggles with anxiety, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health issues openly. She expressed her desire to ensure that her children and others do not suffer in silence, highlighting the significance of creating an environment where mental health is openly discussed and supported.
Since Ryan’s appointment as head coach at Ohio State in 2019, Nina has embraced her role as the “First Lady of Ohio State Football.” She has become an integral part of the Buckeyes community, supporting not only her husband’s endeavors but also engaging with fans and players alike. Her presence at games and events, coupled with her advocacy work, has made her a beloved figure among Ohio State supporters.
The relationship between Ryan and Nina Day is a powerful narrative of love, resilience, and shared purpose. From their childhood T-ball days to their current roles as parents, advocates, and community figures, they have built a life centered around mutual support and commitment. Their journey continues to inspire those around them, demonstrating the strength found in partnership and the impact of advocating for causes close to one’s heart.
