On the 15 year anniversary of his Isuzu UTE A-League debut, Rhyan Grant reflected on his time in Sky Blue.
Quite a lot has transpired since a baby faced teenager with long blonde hair entered the pitch in the second half against Perth Glory.
From two grand final goals to numerous trophies, there’s not much in Australian football that Rhyan Grant hasn’t achieved.
He is a one club man, and there are few men who compare in Australia sport.
For the modest right back, he is only now starting to see the extent of his achievements.
“It honestly doesn’t feel like 15 years, it only seems like a few ago.
“There’s been obvious ups and downs and it’s been a great time with some great memories and hopefully there are more to come.
“One of our current players [Joe Lacey] was only 18 months old when I made my debut which puts everything into perspective,” Grant joked.
“It’s a match made in heaven and I am very happy and content at Sydney and love the club.
“There is a mutual respect and loyalty both ways.
“There’s probably been times when I wasn’t at my best and they stuck by me and vice versa I’ve had some really good periods and chose to stay,” he said.
Looking across the years Grant, who has amassed over 300 appearances for Sydney FC, believes there has been plenty of change but one key element has remained the same.
“We’ve seen a lot of success at this club, a lot of players coming in and out and it has changed a lot but also stayed the same.
“I’ve got heaps of close friends both players and staff who have been around for years and I think that’s the biggest thing about the club.
“It’s very community based and family orientated so when you’re inside it you see that and get to know people so well,” Grant added.
“As much as the club has changed as a whole, the inner shell hasn’t and that has been great.”
However, with his nine major trophies in his cabinet, the 32 year old is under no illusions of where he is at in his career.
“I know I’m getting a bit older and need to weigh up a few things that are important to me now that I have a baby around.
“But like I’ve always said, I love it here. I love Sydney FC and it is my home.
“I am not looking too far forward and just want to keep playing good football and prove that I’m still good enough, but as long as the club wants me, I think I’ll stay,” he said.
Despite the 15 years filled with ups and downs and injuries and goals, Rhyan Grant is certain of one thing.
“I’ve had a pretty successful period here and it has been great on a personal and team level.
“There’s been a few opportunities to leave but I wouldn’t have went unless it was right and nothing was as good as being here so definitley no regrets.
“I have always said I would’ve liked to sample another football culture but it never panned out that way.
“I love it here and I have loved every minute,” he concluded.
Catch Rhyan Grant in his 15 year anniversary match this Saturday at Allianz Stadium.
Match Details
Sydney FC v Western United
Isuzu UTE A-League Round Nine
Saturday 23rd December 2023
Allianz Stadium, Sydney, NSW
Kick Off: 5:30pm AEDT
Gates Open: 4:30pm AEDT
Broadcast Live: Paramount+
Tickets: Click Here
