Ryan Croley has been appointed as the Executive Director of WFLF

Dear Supporters, 

We are thrilled to announce that Ryan Croley has been appointed as the Executive Director of the Warrior for Life Fund (WFLF). Ryan is the former President and Founder of the WFLF, is also a retired Navy Captain with a distinguished military career spanning 26 years and brings a wealth of experience and leadership. 

Ryan’s extensive background in the Naval Special Warfare community where he commanded five Special Operations units, has equipped him with exceptional skills and a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by military personnel and their families. His unwavering commitment to serving others and strengthening the community is truly remarkable. 

For the last 13 years, Ryan has been instrumental in using hockey as a therapeutic tool to support active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. Under his leadership, the organization has grown from its origins as the Virginia Beach Hockey Club in 2012 to a beacon of support for the military community in both Virginia Beach and Coronado. 

Ryan’s journey with hockey began while he was stationed at the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, where he discovered the sport’s benefits for alleviating loneliness and stress. Through the WFLF, Ryan has seen firsthand the life-changing impact of hockey, from cognitive health improvements to fostering companionship and camaraderie. 

We are confident that Ryan’s vision and leadership will continue to drive the Warrior for Life Fund forward, ensuring that we can reach an even larger portion of the military and Gold Star community. 

Please join us in congratulating Ryan on his new role as Executive Director! 

Warm regards, 

Warrior for Life Fund Team