A son of a Shepparton gun has made his senior debut and he didn’t look out of place.
Ryan Ash, 17, played his first senior football game for Shepparton in Goulburn Valley League on Saturday as his father Stephen Ash — a 309-game legend for the Bears — watched on from the stands.
Ryan wore the number three as his old man did in years gone past on what was a special day for the family and the club.
Despite being his first match against men, Ash slotted well into a Bears outfit that trounced its Shepparton Swans opponents — Shepparton won the game by 90 points.
Ash — younger brother of GWS star Lachie — had an opportunity to kick a goal early from a set shot, but unfortunately couldn’t convert.
However, that didn’t seem to play on his mind for long, with Ash collecting 11 touches (nine effective), six marks, five score involvements and three tackles for the match.
The young gun said his older teammates made the transition to senior football feel seamless.
“It was good playing with the boys,” Ash said.
“It’s a pretty good group and we play the same way (through all the age groups), so it’s pretty quick to slot into.”
However, Ash did say that the switch from juniors to seniors was noticeable, given the increased speed and physicality.
“It was definitely a big leap up,” he said.
“Bigger bodies and a bit harder at it, but the boys around me helped me a lot.”
Being the son of Stephen could put pressure on Ash’s young shoulders, but the talented Bear said he was able to look past expectations and appreciate what it meant for him, his family and the club.
“It’s an honour,” he said.
“There is a lot of legacy here for us.
“I’m just so proud to be here and playing for this club; I love it.
“Hopefully, sneak in another game; see how we go.”
Shepparton’s last match of the home and away season is a trip to Kyabram.