Dan Ryan running the Boars out onto the field on Saturday surrounded by friends, family and team mates.
Nine year old Dan Ryan had no idea that his stint in the Under 10s Parkes juniors, back in 1999, would see him go on to play his 150th game for the Boars First Grade team last Saturday at Spicer Oval against Bathurst CSU.
This milestone was even sweeter, with the Parkes Boars taking a convincing win against CSU with the final score of 96 – 7.
“It was really cool to have my family there and to also play alongside (brother) Ben. he’s always been there and has been my biggest supporter,” said Dan.
Dan had nothing but praise for the support he has always received from his mum and dad, Cathy and Allan Ryan.
“Mum and dad are always there, it doesn’t matter where I play, they seem to find their way there. I remember one time I played down in Melbourne for NSW Country and dad drove down with Ben to watch the game and then drove straight back to Parkes.”
In addition to his 150 games for the Parkes Boars, Dan has a long list of representative football experience. Dan has played for the Central West Blue Bulls for almost 11 years and has also been fortunate to be selected to play for the Country Cockatoos for six years.
Of his representative matches, Dan said, “Probably the most memorable game was when we played Queensland Country. It was the opener before the British and Irish Lions played in Newcastle. Getting to play football at the big stadiums is always exciting.”
The Ryan family have been with the club through the good times and the hard times. Dan commends his dad and the entire community for their dedication to building the new Club House at Spicer Oval.
Dan doing what he does well, securing the ball for Parkes in the lineout.