Ryan was a two-sport athlete at Niwot, lettering in both baseball and basketball. A two-time all-conference selection in basketball. Ranks third all-time in three-pointers made at Niwot. An all-conference pick as a senior in baseball. Over three seasons at Niwot, posted a 16-3 record with 144 strikeouts.

Ryan accepted a scholarship to play baseball for the Division I Long Beach State Dirtbags.

In 2011, Ryan earned a spot in Long Beach State's rotation as a true freshman. Made nine starts on the year, and finished the season with a 3-2 record and a 4.70 ERA. Threw 53.2 innings, fourth-most on the team.

In the summer of 2011, Ryan pitched for the Newport Gulls of the New England Collegiate Baseball League. Ryan, had a 2-1 record and a 5.85 ERA, and 17 strikeouts in 20 innings pitched.