MARK RIDGLEY APPOINTED HEAD COACH OF RHEIN FIRE

Rhein Fire will be led by a new head coach as they embark on the inaugural American Football League Europe campaign, with the experienced Mark Ridgley getting the call from the double European champions.

The signing of the American underlines Rhein’s desire to bring in international experience, modern leadership methods, clear work structures and a long-term sporting ambition for the start of the new breakaway league. Ridgley will work closely with recently-confirmed sporting director Rohat Dagdelen and new general manager Christoph Lörcks as the Fire continue to plan their roster for the 2026 campaign.

“It’s important to me to build a culture based on reliability, trust and shared responsibility,” Ridgley explained. “When people are clearly led, connected and consistently work toward common goals, performance emerges — both on and off the field.”

The 40-year-old brings NFL experience to the AFLE, having spent the period from 2012 to 2020 as part of the coaching staff of the San Diego and Los Angeles Chargers. Over time, he assumed increasing responsibility within the coaching staff of the offensive position groups, advancing from the position of coaching administrative assistant in 2012 to running backs coach by his final NFL season.

“My time in the NFL taught me that, at the highest level, the smallest details make the biggest difference,” Ridgley continued. “Everything counts, and I bring this mindset to Rhein Fire: focused preparation, a sense of responsibility in every action and high standards for daily work.”

Prior to his years in the NFL, Ridgley worked in college football, coaching defensive position groups at the universities of Pittsburgh and Central Michigan. Since leaving the big leagues, he has gained European experience with both the Madrid Bravos and as head coach of the Fehérvár Enthroners.

“Mark brings not only international experience, but also a strong understanding of both sides of the ball and the necessary team and organisational structures,” GM Lörcks emphasised. “He is a great fit for the sporting direction we want to pursue with Rhein Fire.”