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Ryan: I've always had a passion for Antrim
The Saffrons are eager to move on after a season that saw former boss Jerry Wallace walk away after a disappointing Championship defeat to Westmeath.
Ryan, who enjoyed a successful four-year reign with Carlow, was recommended for the Antrim role by County Chairman Jim Murray and then unanimously endorsed by those present.
He was chosen ahead of Michael Johnston, who guided Armagh to two Nicky Rackard Cup titles, while PJ O'Mullan and Gregory O'Kane withdrew from the managerial race last week.
Former Waterford hurler Ryan, who is attached to the Mount Sion club, is facing a 440-mile round trip from his home to manage the Glensmen.
Speaking about his appointment, he told the Irish News: "It looks a strange one me joining Antrim, but I've always had a passion for them.
"I was up there at a very young age on coaching courses in the mid-1980s. The players have serious potential and can achieve an awful lot more.
"I had a few of the Antrim boys at the 'Shinty' international (Cormac Donnelly, Neil McManus, Aaron Graffin and Barry McFall) over the last few years and they were so committed, so passionate, even though the Shinty is an end-of-season thing.
"I got that feeling opposing them on the line. I just hope to bring a lot more hurling to them. They were always passionate about their game and I like that."
The 47-year-old added: "A few counties have been catching up on them and I don't think Antrim have moved on as much as they should have.
"I wouldn't like to say what they can achieve, but I will do in time when I get to meet the players. They should be perceived to be up there with some of the top counties and they're not.
"Antrim possibly lack consistency. They can go out one day and put it up to any team in the country and two or three weeks later they suffer a heavy defeat…
"You need that consistency. Hurling-wise, I feel they can be as good as the top teams in the country, but I don't think they produce that often enough. I would certainly hope to work on morale and belief and that kind of stuff."
Ryan's backroom team will be confirmed in the coming weeks, and it is understood that he would like to have selectors from within the county.
Commenting on the appointment process and Ryan's selection, Murray said: "We interviewed two candidates for the position of Antrim hurling manager and to be honest both were very impressive in how they presented their vision for Antrim, they were both excellent candidates.
"However, in the end, the committee had to make a decision and ultimately we believe that Kevin is the right man for the Antrim job.
"Kevin is very clear about where he believes Antrim should be and how we can improve on our current position. Everyone in Antrim has high hopes for the hurling team and we all want success.
"Kevin has the best wishes of everyone in the county and we are looking forward to the new season," concluded the County Chairman.