San Antonio FC today named former defender-midfielder and club captain Ryan Roushandel an assistant coach for the SAFC first-team. Roushandel originally joined the club in a playing capacity prior to the start of the 2016 season.

In his new role, Roushandel will serve as a first-team assistant coach for SAFC Head Coach Darren Powell while also expanding his role within the SAFC Pro Academy as Talent Identification Coordinator, identifying and scouting throughout San Antonio and the greater region.

“We’re excited to have Ryan join our staff,” said Powell. “Over the past couple of years, he’s had many roles within the club, from being a player, to an academy coach, to broadcasting games, and he’s been a fantastic help the whole time. Now is the right moment for Ryan to help us go into the 2019 season as he continues to work with the academy and the first team. We’re excited that he’s part of the group and we look forward to helping him transition into his new career.”

As a player, Roushandel made 37 overall appearances with the club and was named club captain prior to the 2018 USL Championship season. In his three seasons with San Antonio, the 33-year-old compiled 2,837 minutes while scoring one goal and recording two assists. Roushandel became an SAFC Pro Academy coach in 2016 during his first season with the organization. His goal against the Portland Timbers 2 in October of 2017 clinched a win and a home playoff match for the first time in club history.

Prior to joining SAFC, Roushandel spent time with the Austin Aztex (USL) and the Atlanta Silverbacks (NASL) from 2014-15. Aside from his time in the USL and NASL, Roushandel also played in the first division of Costa Rica and attended college and played soccer at Clemson University before transferring to the University of Central Florida.

“San Antonio has been my home since day one of this organization starting,” said Roushandel. “I am excited to continue to grow in my soccer career while representing this club and city. I am so grateful to the coaching staff and front office for this opportunity and the ability to continue working with our wonderful Pro Academy. I can’t wait to continue work with our players to achieve our goals this season.”

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL season, and fans can purchase 2019 season tickets by calling the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting SanAntonioFC.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook, as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC), Instagram (@sanantoniofc) and Snapchat (SanAntonioFC).