SAGINAW, Mich. — Saginaw Valley State University has dismissed head football coach Ryan Brady after six seasons, ending the tenure of a leader who produced multiple winning years but fell short of the program’s postseason expectations. Brady, the seventh head coach in SVSU football history, was also the first Saginaw County native to lead the program.
The decision, announced Wednesday by SVSU Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics John Lewandowski, follows what he described as an “extensive and thorough review” of the program.
“After an extensive and thorough review of our football program, I have relieved Ryan Brady of his duties as head football coach at Saginaw Valley State University,” Lewandowski said in a statement. “Winning seasons are no longer the standard of excellence for SVSU football.”
Brady guided the Cardinals to a 7–4 record in 2024 and 6–5 in 2025, but Lewandowski said the teams “failed to meet our expectation of participating in the NCAA Division II Playoffs,” adding that he did not believe the program was trending toward that goal.
Lewandowski praised Brady’s integrity and commitment, noting his impact on recruiting and academics. “He worked tirelessly on the recruiting trail and attracted talented players to our campus while also elevating their performance in the classroom,” Lewandowski said. “He led our program with integrity.”
Brady, hired in March 2019, exits with a 33–22 overall record across five played seasons and four straight winning campaigns. His teams produced several nationally recognized athletes and some of the GLIAC’s top defensive performances.
The program’s momentum included an 8–3 record in Brady’s third season, featuring two wins over top-10 opponents, the University of Indianapolis and Bowie State. Earlier seasons included victories in rivalry and showcase games such as the Axe Bowl and the Red Feather Classic.
Despite steady winning records, SVSU’s leadership made it clear that playoff appearances define the university’s benchmark for success.
SVSU will conduct a national search for new leadership “so we can meet our commitment to provide our student-athletes with a ‘Championship Experience,’” Lewandowski said. “Our program should be positioned to compete for GLIAC Championships and NCAA postseason appearances on a regular basis.”
