Maloney assumes fitness role

Jon-Ryan Maloney has had since August to take on the task of getting Fredonia Blue Devil student-athletes fit for practices and competitions.

In reality, he's been in the role for much longer than the start of the 2016-17 academic year, when he officially became Fitness Center Director/Strength and Conditioning Coach following a national search.

Holder of two Fredonia degrees, Maloney began working with the Blue Devils since his undergraduate days. He started as a student assistant in 2008 and has served the department in various capacities ever since.

Here's a look at Maloney's timeline at Fredonia:

As an undergraduate, he worked with eight teams in the department, including women's volleyball during their run to the NCAA Sweet Sixteen.

Continued as a strength and conditioning coach for women's volleyball in 2009 after graduating with a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science.

Hired as assistant women's volleyball coach in 2012 and spent the next five years in that role. Simultaneously volunteered as the athletic department's strength and conditioning coach, responsible for training men's and women's soccer, men's and women's swimming and diving, and women's volleyball.

Served as a graduate assistant in the sports information office while pursuing a master's degree in Exercise Neuroscience.

Became interim director of The Blue Devil Fitness Center in February 2016.

Named Fredonia's first full-time strength and conditioning coach in August 2016 and concurrently became Blue Devil Fitness Center Director.

Here is what some of Maloney's colleagues say:

Jeff Meredith, head coach, men's hockey: "Ryan brings a tremendous level of professionalism to our hockey program. His attention to detail and his commitment is something that will allow our athletes a great opportunity to develop and take their game to a new level in the ultra-competitive SUNYAC. We are fortunate to have him in charge of our strength program."

Geoff Braun, head coach, women's volleyball: "I am very excited about Ryan being hired in this role. By working with the athletes in all of our programs, the overall experience we are able to provide our student-athletes will improve greatly. Our department is lucky to have someone as dedicated and motivated as he is."

P.J. Gondek, head coach, men's soccer: "To have someone not only as knowledgeable but as passionate as Ryan Maloney about our athletes and their well being is immeasurable to us coaches. I think we will see an improvement from a physical and mental standpoint very soon and it should translate to even more success for our programs."