Ryan Christopher Merrigan 1979 - 1992
Ryan started out in football at the Fountain Gate Little League and was proud to represent various clubs at the half time match at three AFL matches. He also played football at St Kevin's primary school in Hampton Park and then at nine years of age, he joined the HPJFC. He loved the game and the many friends he made during the four years he played.
His interest and inspiration came from being born into a family very closely associated with the Hampton Park Football Club. His Grandfather, Neville, was one of the first players at the club after its formation in 1955. As a child, Ryan spent each weekend watching his father Ian, and all of his uncles play football at the club. Both of Ryan's younger brothers - Leigh and David, played junior football at Hampton Park as well.
Ryan, almost certainly, was the first, 3rd generation family member to represent the club. He loved his involvement in football as a player at Hampton Park, as well as being a passionate supporter of Fitzroy, where his uncle Harvey played many games.
Ryan was also good at cricket and tennis. Some of his other interests were playing guitar, skateboarding and he had a gift for writing stories. He joined the local Cubs and then Scouts, but one of his ambitions was to play in a premiership for Dandenong and eventually to play for Fitzroy (now the Brisbane Lions).
Ryan was a quiet but confident young boy who respected others and was always prepared to try his hardest at whatever he attempted. He was a happy, loving and considerate young person with a great sense of humour. During his short life, Ryan made many friends, both at school and at the football club.
Ryan died as a result of a farm accident in October 1992 - he was 13 years old
Shortly after his death, we were very honoured to be asked by the HPJFC if a trophy could be named in his memory.
Ian and Liz Merrigan.
Last Modified on 13/09/2011 10:09