Seahawks Punter Jon Ryan gives back to his hometown

When Seahawks punter Jon Ryan was kicking frozen footballs for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League eleven years ago, he probably never imagined that someday he would be able to give back to his community the way he just did.

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Today in Regina, Saskatchewan, Ryan and his charity Gear Up donated $75,000 to Regina Minor Football. The cash will provide all new equipment for 8 and 9 year olds in Ryan’s old youth league.

Thank you to everyone that came out today. I really wish I could have been there. pic.twitter.com/0lX8yZVumt
— Jon Ryan (@JonRyan9) August 22, 2015

It’s been a long road since his CFL days, but after leading the league with a 50.6 yard average in 2005 Ryan on to kick for the Green Bay Packers for two seasons before being released in 2008. He was quickly picked up by the Seahawks and since then has established himself as one of the more consistent punters in the league, specializing in downing kicks inside the 10 yard line. His skill earned him a 6 year, $9.1 million contract that ends after this season, but his gregarious nature and sense of humor has made him a sort of cult celebrity around Saskatchewan and Seattle. He’s engaged to comedian Sarah Colonna, and has appeared on her podcast as well as American Ninja Warrior. If you don’t follow @JonRyan9 on Twitter you should.

Punters have never been thought of as great athletes, but Ryan breaks the mold; he was actually drafted by the Blue Bombers as a punter AND wide receiver, and in fact during his sophomore year at the University of Regina he led the team in receiving, highlighted by a 109 yard TD catch (gotta love Canadian rules!)

Of all the impending free agents the Seahawks have to address after this season, Ryan is one that flies under the radar, but might be as important as nearly all of them. He’ll turn 34 in November but clearly has a few good years left. With the Hawks emphasis on scoring-prevention and smash-mouth football, having a consistent, directional punter is an asset.

Simply put, he’s not your typical punter.

Just ask the Regina Minor Football League.

Next: Kristjan Sokoli flashes potential in KC

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