Henrico's Ryan steps down as Benedictine baseball coach

Benedictine head baseball coach Sean Ryan, a Henrico resident and University of Richmond graduate, announced July 22 that he would step down after 22 seasons leading the program. The school named 1992 graduate and current Cadets’ assistant coach Brian Toland, also a Henrico resident, to replace him.

“I’ve been truly blessed to lead the Benedictine baseball program all these years,” Ryan said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to coach hundreds of Cadets and develop lifelong memories and relationships with so many players, families and the Benedictine community. I’m especially grateful to my family, assistant coaches and the school’s leadership for their support in building this program.”

During his tenure, Benedictine won five VISAA Division I State Championships and compiled an overall record of 384-180-2, a .678 winning percentage and an average of 18 wins per season. The Cadets made 19 playoff appearances in 21 eligible years under Ryan’s leadership. His 2019 team was ranked No. 8 nationally by USA Today, and the 2024 team finished No. 33 nationally according to Prep Baseball Report.

“We can’t overstate the impact Sean has had on Benedictine baseball and our entire community,” said Benedictine Director of Athletics Fran Pochily. “He exemplifies sportsmanship, integrity and respect for the game — values he passed on to generations of Cadets. While we’ll miss seeing Sean on the third base line, we’re proud of his professional success and grateful for his contributions.”

Ryan coached 86 players who went on to compete at the collegiate level and earned wins against top regional programs. Before arriving at Benedictine, he was hired to restart the baseball program at Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School, where he coached for two seasons. His career high school coaching record is 393-209-2.

Ryan cited growing responsibilities at work (he serves as senior vice president of media relations at The Hodges Partnership, a Richmond public relations firm) and home as the reason for his decision.

“In recent years at Hodges, I’ve been afforded opportunities to grow and expand my leadership,” Ryan said. “It’s gotten harder to juggle my family, work and coaching responsibilities. Coaching at Benedictine has been a long, memorable chapter in my life, but I’m very excited by what’s to come in my career in PR and being able to spend more time with my family.”

In addition to his coaching and professional duties, Ryan has held volunteer leadership roles with nonprofit organizations, including the Salvation Army and Virginia Down Syndrome Association. He is president of the Virginia Baseball Coaches Association and co-founder of CollegeBaseballInsider.com, an independent website that provides news, analysis and features focused on NCAA Division I college baseball.

A 1996 University of Richmond graduate and former Spider baseball captain, Ryan played third base and was part of a nationally ranked team.

Toland, a former varsity MVP at Benedictine, brings more than two decades of coaching experience and deep ties to the school’s baseball tradition.

He played at Benedictine, American Legion Post 144, and Randolph-Macon College, where he earned accolades, including ODAC Player of the Year, First Team All-ODAC and All-South Region honors in 1995.

His coaching career includes assistant and head coaching roles across high school, travel and college-level baseball. He served as assistant coach at Randolph-Macon College, head coach for American Legion Post 144, and head coach for RockIt Sports/Elite Squad Travel Baseball.

He has served as assistant coach for the Cadets since 2020.

“Brian is a true Cadet,” Ryan said. “As a player, parent and coach, he’s been a major contributor to our success. I’m excited to see him continue developing Cadets who thrive on the diamond, in the community and in their lives.”

“I’m thrilled to be named the next head coach at Benedictine,” said Toland. “I’m humbled and honored to lead the program that helped shape who I am today. I sincerely thank Coach Ryan for his years of dedication and mentorship. His impact on the team and community is lasting. I’m excited to build on the legacy he helped create.”