Knoxville, Tennessee, August 12, 2025
News Summary
Ryan Metzger is set to continue her impactful role as the Assistant Director of Olympic Sports Performance for the University of Tennessee’s soccer and women’s tennis teams. Since joining in 2022, Metzger’s expertise has been pivotal in the Lady Vols’ success, including securing multiple SEC titles. Her impressive background includes notable achievements with the Clemson soccer and softball teams, along with her qualifications in exercise physiology, showcasing her distinction in athletic training and competitive sports.
KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE — Ryan Metzger, renowned in the field of sports performance, is set to return for her third season as the Assistant Director of Olympic Sports Performance for the University of Tennessee’s soccer and women’s tennis programs in 2024. Since joining the Lady Vols in 2022, Metzger has significantly contributed to the success of the soccer program, helping it secure its third consecutive SEC East Division title during her inaugural season.
Recognized for her outstanding contributions, Metzger was awarded the 2022 NSCA Assistant College Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year. She brings a wealth of experience to her role, having previously served as the Senior Assistant of Olympic Sports Strength and Conditioning at Clemson University from June 2019 before her tenure at Tennessee. During her time at Clemson, Metzger was pivotal in the strength and conditioning efforts of the women’s soccer and softball teams.
Under Metzger’s guidance, the Clemson Women’s Soccer team advanced to the Elite Eight in the 2020 NCAA Tournament, which marked the program’s deepest tournament run since 2006. Additionally, Clemson Softball claimed the 2021 ACC Regular Season Championship, showcasing the effective conditioning protocols and training methodologies Metzger implemented.
Metzger’s career in sports performance began at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), where she worked as an Assistant Sports Performance Coach. She managed the strength and conditioning programs for field hockey, women’s lacrosse, cross country, and track and field while directing intern activities for Olympic sports. Notably, she helped the Rams track and field team achieve five conference championships during her stint at VCU.
Prior to her tenure at VCU, Metzger held the position of Graduate Assistant at the University of Kentucky. There, she worked with multiple NCAA Division I teams including football, women’s basketball, volleyball, and women’s soccer, further refining her skills in athletic performance training.
Metzger holds a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from the University of Kentucky and a Bachelor’s in Exercise Science and Health Promotion with a minor in Strength and Conditioning from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, obtained in 2011. To complement her academic credentials, she possesses several professional certifications, including SCCC, CSCS, and RSCC from the CSCCa and NSCA. Additionally, she is a Level 1 Sports Performance Coach through USAW and holds certifications in FMS Level 1, FCS, and First Aid/CPR/AED.
In addition to her professional achievements, Metzger actively participates in Olympic weightlifting, competing in the 55kg weight class. She has been recognized nationally, with notable performances including finishing 2nd in the snatch and 3rd in total at the 2018 American Open Finals. Her competitive nature has secured her a spot among the top 10 in the nation for her weight class.
As Metzger prepares for the upcoming 2024 season, her extensive background in strength and conditioning and her proven track record at both Clemson and Tennessee positions her as an invaluable asset to the University of Tennessee’s athletic programs.
FAQ
Who is Ryan Metzger?
Ryan Metzger is the Assistant Director of Olympic Sports Performance for soccer and women’s tennis at the University of Tennessee, entering her third year in this role in 2024.
What notable achievements has Metzger accomplished?
Metzger was recognized as the 2022 NSCA Assistant College Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year and played a significant role in helping Tennessee secure its third consecutive SEC East Division title in women’s soccer.
Where did Metzger work prior to Tennessee?
Prior to joining the University of Tennessee, Metzger worked at Clemson University as the Senior Assistant of Olympic Sports Strength and Conditioning and at VCU as an Assistant Sports Performance Coach.
What are Metzger’s educational qualifications?
Metzger holds a Master’s in Exercise Physiology from the University of Kentucky and a Bachelor’s in Exercise Science and Health Promotion from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.
What certifications does Metzger hold?
She holds multiple certifications, including SCCC, CSCS, RSCC, and is a Level 1 Sports Performance Coach through USAW.
Does Metzger compete in any sports?
Yes, Metzger competes in Olympic weightlifting and has participated in national events, showcasing her skills in the 55kg weight class.
Key Features of Ryan Metzger’s Career
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Role | Assistant Director of Olympic Sports Performance at University of Tennessee |
| Experience | Over 10 years in strength and conditioning across multiple universities |
| Major Achievements | SEC East Division titles, NSCA awards, NCAA tournament advancements |
| Education | Master’s in Exercise Physiology, Bachelor’s in Exercise Science |
| Certifications | SCCC, CSCS, RSCC, Level 1 Sports Performance Coach, FMS Level 1, CPR/AED |
| Competitive Sports | Competes in Olympic Weightlifting in 55kg class |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Tennessee vs. Clemson Soccer Match Central
- Wikipedia: Ryan Metzger
- Ryan Metzger Profile – UT Sports
- Google Search: Ryan Metzger sports performance
- NCAA Women’s Soccer RPI Rankings
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Exercise Physiology
- Sam Black Profile – UT Sports
- Google Scholar: Exercise Science
- Marty Baker Profile – UT Sports
- Google News: Olympic weightlifting
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
