Ryan Day may be the mastermind behind the Ohio State Buckeyes’ football program, but behind every great coach is a strong and supportive partner. For Day, that’s his wife, Nina Day—a woman who has been by his side long before the football fields and championship dreams. Their story is one of love, resilience, and a shared journey that began in their hometown of Manchester, New Hampshire.
Childhood Sweethearts Turned Lifelong Partners
Ryan and Nina Day’s love story is one for the ages. Growing up just a mile and a half apart, the pair met when they were kids playing on the same tee-ball team in 1985. Their connection grew stronger over the years as they attended the same elementary, middle, and high schools, before both eventually landed at the University of New Hampshire. Ryan played quarterback for the university from 1998-2001 while Nina pursued her studies.
Though they dated on and off during their school years, Nina always knew Ryan was “the one.” In a heartwarming anecdote, Nina shared that she wrote a note in seventh grade declaring she would marry Ryan someday—a prediction that came true when the couple tied the knot in 2005.
A Family Built on Love and Resilience
Ryan and Nina’s journey together hasn’t always been smooth sailing, but their bond has remained unshakable. After college, the couple moved around the country as Ryan climbed the coaching ladder, taking roles at Florida, Boston College, and other programs. Along the way, they built a beautiful family.
The Days have three children: their first son, Ryan Jr. (“RJ”), was born in 2009, followed by daughters Grace in 2011 and Nia in 2014. Family is the cornerstone of their lives, and Nina has been a constant source of strength and stability for Ryan and the kids amid the chaos of football season.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Nina faced one of her biggest challenges as Ryan had to live away from home for three months to protect the family. Reflecting on the experience, Nina told The Columbus Dispatch in 2021, “It hasn’t been easy… I hold my breath every time I see my husband’s name on my phone because I think, ‘Oh, goodness. Now what?’”
A Life Beyond the Spotlight
While Ryan commands attention as Ohio State’s head coach, Nina prefers to keep a low profile. At 44 years old, she’s the rock of the Day family, balancing the demands of parenting with the ever-changing schedule of college football.
Ryan Day’s success has brought financial stability to the family, with an estimated net worth of $10 million, thanks to his lucrative coaching contracts and endorsements. But for Nina, it’s never been about the money—it’s about the relationships and values they’ve built as a family.
The Backbone of the Buckeyes
As Ryan leads the Ohio State Buckeyes to another potential national championship, it’s clear that Nina is his biggest supporter. She’s more than a coach’s wife; she’s a partner, a mother, and the glue that holds the Day family together.
Behind every great coach is a story, and Ryan and Nina’s is one of love, perseverance, and unwavering support. Whether Ohio State wins the national title or not, the Day family has already scored big in life.