Adrian Ryan loved playing in goal for Avondale once again

For Adrian Ryan, putting on the Avondale goalkeeper jersey again after 48 years was about far more than just playing in goal in a charity game. 

It was a return to a special chapter of his life — one filled with friendships, memories, success and, above all, a deep and lasting connection with Avondale United.

Adrian, now the owner of Sports Gear Direct was back between the posts for Avondale in a charity memorial match held to remember some of the great club men who have passed away. 

The annual fixture honours the lives of former committee members and players, including Jim Hennebry, Chris Herlihy, Tom Mullane and recently deceased Matty Barrett. 

Adrian also paid special tribute to his brother-in-law Micheál O’Leary and John O’Leary, both of whom he remembered as fantastic players in their day.

“Firstly, the memorial match is played every year to celebrate the lives of past committee members and players,” Adrian said. 

"All of the above mentioned were fantastic players in their day.” 

For Adrian, the opportunity to return to goal brought a flood of memories from almost half a century earlier.

“It was a pleasure to tog out in the Avondale No. 1, 48 years later, after winning the FAI Intermediate Cup in the 1977-78 season, the first time in the club's history. 

"Such a joy to be involved. It brought back so many happy memories of the good ‘ole days.” 

Those good old days were certainly memorable. Adrian had spent five years with Cork Hibernians after joining the club at just 17, having been signed by Dave Bucazzi. When Hibernians went out of football, Jim Hennebry played a major role in bringing Adrian to Avondale.

His first season with the club saw Avondale competing in the Cork AUL, and they reached the AOH Cup final at Turner's Cross against St Mary’s. More than 5,000 people attended the final, the largest crowd ever recorded for the competition. 

Avondale were ultimately beaten after a replay, but greater success was just around the corner.

The following season, Avondale joined the Munster Senior League and embarked on a historic FAI Intermediate Cup campaign. 

They reached the final against AIB Dublin at St Coleman’s Park in Cobh — and this time there was no disappointment.

Avondale won 3-1, with Micheál O’Leary scoring twice and Alan O’Driscoll adding the third. 

It was a landmark moment for the club, as the FAI Intermediate Cup returned to Cork for the first time in 19 years.

That victory proved to be the beginning of an extraordinary chapter in Avondale’s history. 

Since Adrian’s triumph, the club has gone on to win the FAI Intermediate Cup seven more times, bringing its total to eight. 

The winning managers Tony (Tucker) Allen X 1, John Caulfield X 2, John Cotter X 3, John Ryan X 1 and Kenny Bruton X1.

Adrian’s association with Avondale extended well beyond his playing days. 

Over the years, he served the club in a number of capacities, including four spells as interim manager, ten years as treasurer and many years on the committee.

“I truly enjoyed my time in Avondale and hold many fond memories of my time there. 

"My latest appearance between the posts offered me an opportunity to relive those memories alongside some familiar faces. 

"The players lining out on the day included Ned Kavanagh, Dave O’Gorman, Dave O’Brien, Clem Mahon, Billy O’Sullivan, Len Downey, Philip Murphy and Alan O’Riordan.” 

Adrian was keen to recognise the man who continues to make the annual memorial match possible.

“Paddy Scannell is the main organiser of this event every year and deserves huge credit for all his hard work in keeping the memory of those who have gone before us, well and truly alive in our hearts and minds.” 

The return to the Avondale No. 1 was, therefore, much more than a nostalgic cameo. It was a celebration of people, friendships and a club that has remained an important part of Adrian’s life for almost five decades.

That relationship continues today through his business, Sports Gear Direct, which supplies Avondale with its playing gear and equipment.

And as Avondale looks towards a new era, with the club having recently sold Avondale Park in Carrigaline and preparing to move to a state-of-the-art complex on the Straight Road over the next two years, Adrian remains connected to the club.

The years may have passed, but the memories — and the bond with Avondale for Ryan remain as strong as ever.