Ryan Houlihan

D.O.B:
21 January 1982
Club:
Carlton 
Honours:
1999 National AFL Draft No. 73
2000 AFL Debut
2000 AFL Rising Star Nominee
2005, 2007 Pre-Season Premierships

A classy, skilful runner with an uncanny knack around goals, Ryan Houlihan immediately made an impact at AFL level. Drafted from Corowa-Rutherglen with Carlton’s fifth selection in 1999, Ryan managed 13 games, including three finals during his debut season, which included a nomination for the 2000 AFL Rising Star award.

Since his brilliant entrance, Ryan has been a regular contributor to the Carlton side. Originally playing in the middle and up forward, he eventually found his calling as a running defender in 2003. After an indifferent year in 2005, Ryan returned back to career best form in 2006 playing every game. He averaged more than 21 disposals, with a best of 35 possessions in round 4 against the Hawks.

In 2007, Ryan averaged just over20 possessions per game and was awarded with 4th place in the Blues Best and Fairest.

In 2008, Houlihan spent more than half the season on the sidelines after having surgery to remove a cyst on his hip. The Blues missed the highly skilful utility, as he showed in his comeback game against the Brisbane Lions in round 21 when he booted three goals.

After a consistent 2009, Ryan lead the young Blues side into the finals and took it upon himself to help prepare his younger teammates, having been one of only two players that have played in a final in the navy blue. Playing a total of 20 games, Houlihan averaged 20 disposals and 10 handballs per game during the 2009 season.

Now one of Carlton’s most experienced players, Ryan always looks poised and is capable of performing spectacular feats. His slick skills and ability to kick crucial goals, make him an important senior player at the Blues.