At 34, Ryan felt the time was right.
Playing a big part in the club securing promotion to the Premier League, then staying up last season, he leaves the club with a solid foundation for us to build on.
A career starting in the Highland League and 2 winners medals with Cove Rangers, he had a spell on loan with East End. He moved onto Banchory St Ternan and then another spell in the Highland League with Keith. He left there to join up with Culter and then onto a second spell with Banchory St Ternan, scoring some crucial goals, including a 25 yard rocket in the final to secure a league and cup double.
Lastly, he spent 4 years with us at Newmachar. Vice captain and captained the team for long spells in Euan’s absence.
We’ll be marking Ryan’s career with a retirement match on Sunday 11th August at Charlie’s with a 2pm KO. Followed by some drinks and a bite to eat at the Newmachar Hotel. It would great if you’d come along and share some stories with us.
The gaffer had a few words to say.
It’s been a pleasure. Ryan is a gentleman. He’s been the model pro for me over 6 years or so. The short spell at Keith, then the success we enjoyed at Banchory. He was probably the missing piece in that team who were playing so well but couldn’t score. Ryan came in around October and scored 20 goals or so, Including big goals in 1-0 wins over Deveronside & Stoneywood and of course the goal in the final against Hearties where we played 80 mins with 10 men. Again, fantastic at Newmacher and although some of the younger lads probably don’t realise it yet, they’ll look back in years to come and see what an influence he’s had on them.
3 promotions, 2 trophies and helping us stay in the Premier League last season. We’ve had a good run at it and only one fall out too. Enjoy your retirement, Wheels. Don’t be a stranger.
All the best and thanks for everything, Ryan.