COACHES

FOUNDER & CHIEF MENTOR – RYAN COMERFORD 

Ryan Comerford is a distinguished figure in the realm of elite Rugby League community, renowned for his multifaceted expertise in business and sports mentoring. With a robust foundation in business leadership, Ryan has carved a notable entrepreneurial path as the founder of 8 successful start-up companies, leveraging his visionary approach and strategic acumen. His extensive business journey spans over 20 years, during which he has held pivotal roles in general management and CEO executive capacities,  cultivating a wealth of experience in steering companies & people to success. 

In the corporate arena, Ryan's proficiency shone through during his 8-year  tenure in a public company within the recycling sector, where he demonstrated astute leadership and operational prowess. Furthermore, his entrepreneurial spirit propelled him to thrive in SME start-ups, amassing 12  years of diverse experience encompassing design, building, import & export,  international trading, business development, marketing, sales, and team leadership. This rich tapestry of business acumen has equipped Ryan with a comprehensive skill set and a keen understanding of the dynamics of both established and burgeoning enterprises. 

Ryan's academic skilfulness is equally impressive, as evidenced by his qualifications, including a Diploma of Fitness, Diploma of Strength &  Conditioning, Diploma of Personal Training, Diploma of Business & Marketing  (specializing in Marketing & General Management), Diploma of Project  Management, and a Graduate Certificate in Business Administration.  Furthermore, his dedication to continuous learning is underscored by his completion of a 2-year entrepreneurial business program with The Entourage,  reflecting his commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends and best practices.

In the realm of sports, Ryan's journey is equally illustrious, having excelled as a professional Rugby League player for the North Queensland Cowboys and  Illawarra Steelers, where he honed his skills and gained firsthand experience of the demands of elite-level competition.  

Transitioning seamlessly into coaching, he dedicated 9 years to community club coaching in Rugby League and subsequently serves as a representative coach for the North Sydney Bears/Sydney Rosters and North Sydney  Bears/Melbourne Storm junior pathways, where he plays an instrumental role in nurturing and developing emerging talent and is currently the U16’s  Academy coach for the 2024 Rep season. 

Beyond coaching, Ryan's impact as a personal trainer, S&C specialist, and  fitness expert has been profound, underpinned by his attainment of an NRL  SCC level 2 Coach certification. His expertise is further exemplified by his role  as a Club Coaching Coordinator and Senior Mentor, where he has played a  pivotal role in shaping the next generation of Rugby League athletes. 

Currently, Ryan stands as the Founder and Chief Mentor at Mentoring The  ELITE, where he harnesses his unique blend of business acumen and sports  proficiency to guide and inspire elite Rugby League athletes on their journey  to success. Through his unwavering commitment to excellence and holistic  mentorship, Ryan continues to leave an indelible mark the Rugby League  world, empowering athletes to realise their full potential both on and off the  field.