Champion centre half back/forward from Geelong who played 167 AFL games from 1963- 72, represented Victoria in 1971 and was a member of the losing 1967 grand final side. Moved to Queensland in 1973 to join Coorparoo and captained Queensland in 1974-75, including the famous Gabba win over Tasmania, when he kicked five goals. Played a total of six times for Queensland and finished his career with Southport on the Gold Coast, where he played in five premiership sides.
His strong presence on the Gold Coast was a catalyst to the upsurge in the game, eventually leading to the entry of the all-powerful Sharks to the QAFL in 1983. Was honoured in 2004 when the media award for the second division of the State League was named the Bill Ryan Trophy.
AFLQ QLD
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