If you’ve been around Dowling Catholic, chances are you’ve run into Ryan Kuhn. As someone who’s shared a homeroom with Ryan the past four years, I’ve had the chance to watch him grow and change throughout his years at Dowling Catholic. From a quiet freshman figuring things out to a senior who’s everywhere, whether on the soccer field, the football field, or just laughing with friends, Ryan’s journey is one a lot of students can relate to. It’s been fun to see how he’s taken on new challenges, made lasting friendships, and turned into someone who really makes an impact at Dowling.
A Night to Remember
Ryan’s favorite memory? Junior year prom. “I spent all night hanging out and messing around with my friends,” he says. “I really enjoyed it, and I felt like I got to know my friends even better.” For Ryan, those moments of goofing off and laughing together are what high school is all about.
How It Started
Soccer has always been a big part of Ryan’s life, he knew even in eighth grade that he wanted to play for Dowling. Football came later, thanks to a summer conversation with a family friend (who just happened to be a freshman football coach). “He brought it up a few times, so I figured, why not give it a shot?” Turns out, it was a great decision.
Mentors, Friends, and Family
Ryan credits Mr. Einerson for pushing him to be a better person, both in sports and in life. “He’s always taught me to help others and take responsibility,” Ryan says. Then there’s his sister, Allyson, who’s off at the University of Iowa studying biomedical engineering. “She’s a huge inspiration to me,” he says. “She always goes after what she wants.”
Goals and Big Dreams
This year, Ryan’s aiming to keep his grades up (hello, college scholarships!) and wants to earn all-state honors in both football and soccer. A state championship for either would be the ultimate win.
Teammates Who Inspire
Ryan’s teammates have made a big impact on his life. From Jonathan Mendez, who stayed positive after a tough injury, to John Foth, who donated bone marrow to his sister, Ryan’s surrounded by people who lift each other up. Thanks to Andrew Schumacher, Ryan also got involved in the “Every Kick Counts” charity, raising money for stillbirth prevention.
The Dowling Community
What does Ryan love most about Dowling? “I feel like I’m surrounded by people who want to achieve big things, just like I do,” he says. That sense of community and ambition makes Dowling special for him.
Game Day Mindset
Before a big game, Ryan uses a meditation technique he learned from Coach Einerson. Finding a quiet spot, closing his eyes, and visualizing only success. He also has a go-to playlist and always fits in a good stretch.
Words to Live By
Ryan’s kicking coach, Keith Duncan, told him, “Nobody can give you the success you want. In the end, you have to get yourself there.” That advice has stuck with him and keeps him motivated.
Beyond Sports
When he’s not on a field, Ryan’s trying to learn guitar and chess (work in progress, he admits). He loves chilling with his friends, hanging out with family, and spending time with his dog.
Next Steps
After graduation, Ryan plans to head to either the University of Iowa or Iowa State to study mechanical engineering. Getting into the National Honor Society is something he’s super proud of because it shows all his hard work paid off.
Advice for Underclassmen
Ryan’s got some words for everyone just starting at Dowling: “Try as many things as you can and actually put effort into them. Take every opportunity because you never know what you’ll get out of it.”
Ryan Kuhn’s journey at Dowling is a reminder to embrace every opportunity, work hard, and always support those around you. Best of luck to Ryan as he finishes his senior year and moves on to new adventures!
