Q&A: Ramsden Returns For Second Stint As Panthers Head Coach

Fran Ramsden returns for his second stint leading the Riverside football program ahead of the 2026 season which sees the Panthers return 14 seniors playing this year.

Ramsden enters his 15th season coaching and returns to the head coach position after a two year stint in 2021-2022.

Riverside finished its 2025 regular season 5-5 Overall and 4-3 in Midwestern Conference, earning a 10-seed in the WPIAL 2A Playoffs but was stymied 28-7 by #7 Apollo-Ridge and fell in its opening round contest last October.

The Panthers open up its regular season hosting cross town rival Ellwood City on Friday, October 28th at 7:00 p.m.

GET TO KNOW HEAD COACH FRAN RAMSDEN:

Age: 35
Born: Pittsburgh, currently reside in Cranberry Twp
Married to Kate. Two children: daughter Knox, age 4, and son Xavier, age 2

Q: How did you learn about the position opening and apply?
A: I was on staff last season as offensive coordinator

Q: What is one thing that attracted you to the position?
A: Familiarity and opportunity to build a foundation

Q: What is one obstacle you feel you may face as a first-year head coach?
A: Anticipating and fingers crossed for no obstacles

Q: What can players expect from you as a coach?
A: Rigorous attention to the details. High expectations and standards. Ruthless enforcement of the team standards. Dedicated to game strategy and theory.

Q: What is one thing or habit that plays as well today as it did when you were in high school?
A: If players hold each other accountable instead of the coaching staff being forced to do so will yield better outcomes

Q: What is one thing you feel you do well as a coach/leader?
A: Organized and willing to oversee all operations that lead to a successful program

Q: What can fans/parents expect from you as a coach?
A: Hopefully an exciting product on the field that make them proud to support Riverside