Coaches

Leadership

Ryan Proper

Director of Coaching & Head Girls Travel Coach

Ryan Proper is a Physical Education teacher at Schreiber High School in Port Washington and a lifelong multi-sport athlete. As a former football and track athlete at Springfield College, Ryan brings a deep foundation of athletic skill, leadership, and teaching experience to Nation Flag Football. With more than 10 years of football coaching experience, Ryan has established a reputation for developing complete athletes — physically, mentally, and competitively. His coaching journey includes: - 8 seasons at Lynbrook High School - 2 years as Varsity Head Coach at Franklin K. Lane - 4 seasons as an assistant coach at Port Washington - Currently in his 3rd season as Head Flag Football Coach Ryan played an integral role in launching the program during its inaugural year and continues to inspire players through discipline, fundamentals, teamwork, and personal growth.

Travel Coaches

Arnold Danato

Girls Travel Coach & Boys Development Training Coach

Coach Donado has led Port Washington Track & Field as head coach for 14 years, helping build the program into a highly competitive team with strong individual standouts. In football, he’s spent 12 years coaching at both the JV and varsity levels—serving as JV head coach and varsity assistant. He has worked with every position, helping scheme and game plan on both offense and defense.

John Gendels

Girls Travel Coach & Operations

John Gendels, from Wantagh, NY, is a former Long Island Football Champion and All-State athlete whose passion for the game continues to grow. Coaching allows him to stay connected to the sport he loves while helping young athletes develop their skills and confidence. John is also a Long Island Lacrosse Champion, Academic All-American, and former team captain. He prides himself on leading by example, working hard, and competing with heart — values he instills in every player he coaches.