Australian Football

Recruited by Fitzroy from Albury, 'Dinny' Ryan's VFL career was cut short by World War II, during which he was wounded at Tobruk.

Ryan made his debut for the Maroons as an underdeveloped 18-year-old in 1935 when, playing in the vital centre half forward position, he immediately caught the eye with his powerful marking and prodigious kicking. If there was a major weakness in his game, however, it was his wayward kicking for goal, and in 1938 the Fitzroy selection committee decided to try him in a new position, centre half back. He was a resounding and immediate success, gaining state selection, being awarded Fitzroy's Most Improved Player Award and - to almost everyone's surprise, including 'Dinny's' - landing the VFL's most prestigious individual honour, the Brownlow Medal.

In 1939, Ryan sustained a serious knee injury, and soon afterwards enlisted for active service in the army. He made an attempt to return to league ranks after the war, but was unable to reach the level of fitness required. 'Dinny' Ryan's VFL career was over after just five seasons and 70 games, but his achievements during that time were sufficient to mark him out as a special player.

Author - John Devaney