Houlihan joins Sydney Hills Eagles

The Sydney Hills Eagles Football Club, who will join NEAFL for the first time next season, is pleased to announce the signing of former Carlton footballer Ryan Houlihan.

Houlihan joins the Club on a two-year deal as a player and assistant coach after 201 games and 127 goals across 12 seasons with the Blues.

At 29-years-old, Houlihan is set to play a major part in the Club’ first season in the NEAFL Eastern Conference. 

Throughout his career, Houlihan was a highly skillful player who had an uncanny ability to kick goals. He played in two pre-season premierships with the Blues and finished in the top ten of the Club’s best and fairest on three occasions. He was also rated in the Club’s top ten for average disposals every year from 2003 to 2010.

Sydney Hills Eagles Club Manager Tony Moran said signing Houlihan is a significant step in the Club’s preparation for the NEAFL.

“To have a player of Ryan’s ability and experience commit to the Eagles and the NEAFL for at least the next two years is a huge boost for our Club,” he said.

“There’s no doubt all our players and coaches will learn from Ryan and he’s sure to continue to boost our profile in the Sydney Hills community which is great for members, sponsors and all our supporters.”

In addition to his playing and coaching duties, Houlihan will also work on various community engagement programs for the Eagles as well as fulfilling a coaching role with the GWS GIANTS Academy and the Under-16 and Under-18 NSW/ACT RAMS. 

Houlihan said he’s excited about commencing his new playing and coaching career with the Sydney Hills Eagles.

“I can’t wait to move to Sydney and help the Eagles prepare for their first season in the NEAFL,” he said.

“It’s an exciting time for AFL in Western Sydney and I’m really looking forward to helping the development of the Club and the game.”