Ryan Hollingshead Bio
Ryan Michael Hollingshead (born April 16, 1991) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a right-back for Major League Soccer club Los Angeles FC. A versatile defender and attacker, Hollingshead has played multiple positions throughout his career, including fullback and winger on either side of the field. After a distinguished college career at UCLA, he embarked on a professional journey that included time at FC Dallas before joining Los Angeles FC in 2022.
Standing at 188 cm, Hollingshead combines physical presence with technical ability and tactical awareness. Beyond his club duties, he is recognized for his humanitarian efforts, which earned him the MLS WORKS Humanitarian of the Year award. His career reflects resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence on and off the pitch.
Early Life and Background
Ryan Michael Hollingshead was born on April 16, 1991, in Sacramento, California, USA. Growing up in the Sacramento area, he developed an early passion for soccer, a sport that would eventually define his professional life. The region’s youth soccer scene provided a strong foundation for his technical growth, allowing him to refine his skills in a competitive environment.
Before committing fully to soccer, Hollingshead demonstrated a strong sense of community and service. After being drafted by FC Dallas, he initially chose to delay his professional career to help his brother build a church in Sacramento and to spend time in Haiti doing charity work at an orphanage. This period of service shaped his character and reinforced the values that would later define his approach to the game and his role as a public figure in Major League Soccer.
Path to Professional Soccer
Hollingshead played college soccer at UCLA between 2009 and 2012, establishing himself as one of the standout players in the program. During his time with the UCLA Bruins, he appeared in 81 matches, scoring 16 goals and recording 21 assists for a total of 53 points. His performances earned him All-Pac-12 honors three times, from 2010 through 2012, and he was named the 2012 Pac-12 Player of the Year.
Beyond the Pac-12 accolades, Hollingshead earned NSCAA All-America honors in 2012 and was named to the 2011 NCAA All-Tournament Team after leading the Bruins to the College Cup semifinals. In his senior year, he started all 19 of UCLA’s matches, led the team with 22 points from seven goals and eight assists, and captained the squad to a 13–3–3 record. His leadership and consistency at UCLA set the stage for his entry into Major League Soccer.
Ryan Hollingshead Career
Early Career (2014–2016)
FC Dallas selected Hollingshead in the second round, 20th overall, of the 2013 MLS SuperDraft. After initially delaying his signing to focus on personal and charitable commitments, he officially signed with Dallas on December 9, 2013. He made his professional debut in 2014 and gradually established himself as a reliable contributor for the club.
Over his first few seasons with FC Dallas, Hollingshead demonstrated remarkable versatility, playing primarily as a fullback or winger on either side of the field. His ability to adapt to multiple positions made him a valuable asset for the team and helped him build a reputation as a dependable and intelligent player in Major League Soccer.
FC Dallas Tenure and Recovery (2017–2021)
On January 6, 2017, Hollingshead’s career faced a dramatic turning point when he was struck by a motor vehicle while stopping to help a stranded motorist. The crash, caused by icy conditions, launched him approximately 30 feet into the air and resulted in three broken vertebrae in his neck. The injuries forced him to miss the start of the 2017 season, but his recovery became one of the most inspiring stories in the league.
Hollingshead returned to the field and continued to perform for FC Dallas, finishing his time with the club in 2021. In recognition of his character and community contributions, he was named the MLS WORKS Humanitarian of the Year after the 2017 season. His tenure with Dallas cemented his reputation as both a resilient athlete and a dedicated humanitarian.
Los Angeles FC Era (2022–Present)
On February 10, 2022, Los Angeles FC acquired Hollingshead from FC Dallas in exchange for Marco Farfan. The move marked a new chapter in his career, joining one of the most ambitious clubs in Major League Soccer. Since then, he has continued to contribute as a right-back, bringing versatility and experience to the Los Angeles FC back line.
At Los Angeles FC, Hollingshead has provided defensive stability and tactical flexibility, supporting the team’s ambitions in domestic and international competitions. His presence in the squad has helped reinforce the club’s depth and competitive edge in Major League Soccer.
Playing Style and Strengths
Hollingshead is recognized for his positional versatility, capable of playing as a fullback or winger on either flank. His combination of size, athleticism, and tactical awareness allows him to contribute both defensively and in attacking transitions. His adaptability has made him a reliable option for coaches throughout his professional career.
Notable Events and Milestones
One of the defining moments of Hollingshead’s career was his recovery from three broken vertebrae in his neck following the 2017 accident. His return to professional soccer and subsequent recognition as the MLS WORKS Humanitarian of the Year underscored his resilience and character. Joining Los Angeles FC in 2022 also marked a significant milestone, reflecting his continued value at the top level of American soccer.
Ryan Hollingshead Career Wins
Ryan Michael Hollingshead has built a reputation as a consistent and versatile contributor throughout his professional career. While specific win totals are not fully detailed in verified sources, his impact at both FC Dallas and Los Angeles FC has been widely recognized by teammates, coaches, and supporters.
MLS Highlights
During his time with FC Dallas and Los Angeles FC, Hollingshead has been part of competitive Major League Soccer rosters, contributing to team efforts across multiple seasons. His debut with FC Dallas in 2014 began a journey that included overcoming a life-threatening injury and earning league-wide humanitarian recognition.
Other Wins & Performances
Hollingshead’s college career at UCLA stands out as one of the most decorated periods of his playing days, highlighted by the 2012 Pac-12 Player of the Year award and All-America honors. His leadership of the Bruins to the College Cup semifinals in 2011 further demonstrated his ability to perform on big stages.
Ryan Hollingshead Family
Family Background and Service
Ryan Michael Hollingshead hails from Sacramento, California, where family and community have played an important role in his life. Following his selection in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft, he chose to delay his professional career to help his brother build a church in Sacramento and to spend time in Haiti doing charity work at an orphanage. This dedication to family and service reflects the values that have guided him throughout his career.
Personal Life
Hollingshead’s commitment to humanitarian causes, including his work in Haiti and his recognition as the MLS WORKS Humanitarian of the Year, highlights his character beyond the soccer field. His personal life remains largely private, with his focus centered on his professional career and community contributions.
2025 Season Performance
As of 2025, Ryan Michael Hollingshead continues to serve as a right-back for Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer. His experience and versatility remain valuable assets for the club as it competes in the MLS regular season and pursues postseason ambitions. Hollingshead’s role within the squad provides defensive reliability and tactical flexibility for the coaching staff.
Throughout the 2025 campaign, Hollingshead has been part of a competitive Los Angeles FC roster aiming to build on previous seasons. His consistency and leadership in the back line contribute to the team’s defensive organization and its ability to transition quickly into attacking play.
Looking ahead, Hollingshead is expected to remain an important part of Los Angeles FC’s plans as the season progresses. His combination of experience, versatility, and professionalism positions him as a steady contributor for the club in 2025 and beyond.