Essendon is thrilled to welcome Patrick Ryder back to the NEC Hangar, with the former Bomber appointed as Indigenous Player Development Manager.
A Noongar man from Geraldton in Western Australia, the 34-year-old will work with the club’s Indigenous and first-to-three-year players through the Jack Jones Academy while also supporting various other community and development programs across the football club.
Having retired from the AFL last year, Ryder’s knowledge and experience will be an invaluable asset to the Bombers’ program, providing guidance and support to the players as they enter the AFL system.
Ryder played 281 games across his three clubs, including 170 in the red and black between 2006 to 2014.
His accolades include winning the 2009 Anzac Day Medal, All Australian selection in 2017 and claiming Port Adelaide’s Best and Fairest in the same year.
Essendon CEO Craig Vozzo welcomed Ryder back to the Bombers.
“We are thrilled to have Paddy back at the club as our Indigenous Player Development Manager. Paddy is a quality person, and it will be fantastic to have him back in the red and black to assist in both our football and community programs,” Vozzo said.
“He has extensive experience as a player and understands the rigours of AFL football. It will be extremely beneficial for our Indigenous and younger players to have someone like Paddy around the club.”
Ryder will commence his role at Essendon ahead of round one.
Ryder said he was excited to work with the Bombers’ Indigenous players and to give back to the club that first gave him an opportunity at AFL level.
“I spent a big chunk of my career here and it’s always been a big part of me so I always knew one day I’d end up back here in some capacity,” Ryder said.
“To come back to help out our young Indigenous boys is something I’m really excited for and am really hoping to come in and make a big difference.
“I really love the direction that the club is heading in and it’s super exciting for our players and members. I want to play my role in bringing these young boys through and giving them the best chance of playing AFL footy.
“We’ve got a proud history and to come in to keep driving that for us is something I will take very seriously. I can’t wait to give back to the club that gave me my first opportunity and I’m really looking forward to that.”
The appointment of Ryder further enhances the club’s renewed focus on enhancing Essendon’s connection with Indigenous Australians across the country.
