Tara Murray
Bundoora coach Michael Ryan walks away from the Northern Football League division 1 club with plenty of memories.
After four years in charge at the Bulls, Ryan is stepping away from the role.
“To have had the privilege to be the coach at Bundoora FNC the past 4 years is one of the best life memories I will ever have,” said a message from Ryan on the club’s social media.
“Spewing we couldn’t have finished off with the ultimate goal but we came across a club who are and will continue to be a powerhouse for a long time and full credit to Heidelberg Football Club there is no fluke that you continue to be adding silverware to that trophy cabinet.
“Amy Ryan, thank you for the unconditional support you have given me, I have loved our Saturday afternoons at the footy and seeing Parker there at the break and sneaking over to give him a hug.”
Ryan said footy clubs are a great social-support outlet for male and females and that everyone at the club saw first hand three years ago the emptiness that was experienced when that was taken away for a period of time
He said then coming back you could see how important being aligned to a sporting club is for people.
Ryan paid tribute to the playing group, which has played off in the last two grand finals.
“The playing group I could not ask for a more respectful and hard working group of men who play hard but enjoy each other’s company away from footy and that’s why the connection is so strong on field,” he said.
“Thank you to the supporters who come week in and week in to watch us play and support us no matter the result guys like Cliffy Penn make football clubs.
“Daniel Younan, you’re one of the best people I’ll ever meet and I cannot thank you enough for being the first player to put their hand up and re sign at the end of 2019 when you had no idea what direction we were going in as a club but you backed me in and I will never forget that.
“The culture at this club is second to none and has been set up from past and previous players… but to see first hand guys like [Brent] Nipper Marshall and Luke Collins continue on this legacy gives me confidence that the best Is yet to come and I am looking forward to seeing the boys enjoy each others company each Saturday.”
President Paul King said that Ryan’s dedication and volunteerism has been inspiring.
“The Bundoora Football Netball Club committee acknowledge Michael’s countless hours spent in recruitment, preseason training, game day readiness and the mentoring of young men to be the best versions of themselves,” he said.
“Michael has been the cornerstone of fostering an inclusive environment that promotes friendship, memories, and personal growth. He simply values the contribution of all people.”
