It’s an anniversary which rarely comes around, particularly in a small town.
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But this year marks 25 years since Ryan Squires first took to the field for the Camden Haven Soccer Club.
In a remarkable feat, not only does 2016 mark Ryan’s 25th year since first donning the boots, but also his 15th year playing in the premier league, after taking to the field for first grade when he was just 15 years old.
For father, Bruce Squires, his son’s commitment to the club and passion for the sport was evident before his first game.
“I can remember going in to wake Ryan for his first game, only to find him asleep in his shorts, socks and boots,” Bruce recalled.
“Apparently he’d woken early, got dressed, then fallen back asleep.”
That dedication has done nothing but grow over the years, with premier league coach Simon Hancox proud to be a part of Squires’ journey.
"Ryan has been around the club for as long as I can remember and he is a real asset to the Redbacks,” Hancox said.
“He's a terrific player but moreso he's a great clubman and I value his friendship as much as I value his input to the team and the club.
I can remember going in to wake Ryan for his first game, only to find him asleep in his shorts, socks and boots.
- Bruce Squires
“He has given his all for the club his whole career and never leaves anything in the tank, but he also understands the importance of the camaraderie that comes with such a great club.
“He is a big part of the reason that all of the senior players bond so well, despite there being over thirty years’ age difference between the youngest and oldest players.
“25 years is an incredible effort and I congratulate him."
Squires will be best man at his mate’s wedding on the Gold Coast on Saturday which means he will miss the home semi-final clash with Taree Wildcats.
Hancox said it would be a fitting achievement if the club could qualify for another grand final in Squires’ milestone year after they made it in the club’s 40th year last year.
He was captain in last year’s decider where the Redbacks fell at the final hurdle.
“It’s now up to the boys to ensure he gets another game next week,” the coach said.
The last time Camden Haven and Taree played, the Redbacks suffered an astonishing 7-5 defeat despite leading 5-3 with about 20 minutes to go.
“I’ve never coached a team where we’ve scored five goals and lost,” Hancox said.
The coach said the grand final loss last year hadn’t been spoken about much in 2016.
“I don’t know if it’s a motivating factor as much as people would think,” he said.
