Ryley Sanders possesses an insatiable curiosity, constantly posing questions and seeking knowledge. It’s ingrained in his nature. Now, as a new recruit for the Western Bulldogs, he directs his inquiries towards teammates Marcus Bontempelli, Adam Treloar, Tom Liberatore, and even Greater Western Sydney’s Tom Green. Despite not having met Green face-to-face, they share commonalities as high draft picks hailing from regions with rich football traditions—Sanders from Launceston and Green from Canberra. Both are eager to excel in the AFL, having represented the Allies in the under-18 national championships.
Their connection was sparked when Sanders, inspired by Green’s praise on a podcast, reached out on Instagram for advice on navigating the transition to professional football. Green responded with detailed guidance, fostering a continued dialogue between them.
Sanders’s dedication and preparedness for AFL life have impressed those at Western Bulldogs’ Whitten Oval. His seamless integration into preseason training and match simulations against seasoned midfielders showcase his readiness for the elite level. Coach Luke Beveridge commends Sanders’s early impact, positioning him as a frontrunner for the Rising Star Award in 2024.
Teammates like Bontempelli, Treloar, and Liberatore have played pivotal roles in Sanders’s adaptation. Bontempelli exemplifies high training standards, Treloar illustrates elite recovery methods, and Liberatore’s competitive spirit influences Sanders’s approach.
Reflecting on his early days with the Bulldogs, Sanders emphasizes the importance of making a positive impression on teammates and demonstrates his commitment to professionalism through diligent recovery and training habits. Grateful for the support from coaches like Brendon Lade and Beveridge, Sanders embraces the resources available to him at the club, fueling his drive to maximize his potential.
Sanders has found a guiding light in his friend and confidant, Harry Sheezel, a rising star at North Melbourne. Their bond, forged during their time at Sandringham Dragons and strengthened by shared experiences, extends beyond football. Sheezel’s remarkable achievements, including winning the Rising Star and a best and fairest award in his debut season, serve as a beacon of inspiration for Sanders as he embarks on his own AFL journey.
Their friendship is rooted in mutual support, with Sheezel offering encouragement and advice, especially during Sanders’s struggles with homesickness in his 17th year. Sanders acknowledges Sheezel’s influence on his football career and aims to replicate his impact at the Western Bulldogs. Despite their different team contexts, Sanders values Sheezel’s insights and strives to make a positive impression early in his career.
Sanders’s determination to excel stems not only from personal ambition but also from a desire to honor the faith placed in him by the Bulldogs’ coaching staff and management. His commitment to repaying their trust is evident in his dedication to training and improvement, fueled by loyalty and gratitude.
While Sanders aims to emulate Sheezel’s success, he remains humble yet confident in his abilities. He acknowledges the challenges ahead, including adjusting to the AFL standard of play, but believes in his potential to make an immediate impact. His loyalty to the Bulldogs drives him to contribute positively to the team’s success and fulfill their expectations.
Sanders’s selection by the Bulldogs wasn’t solely based on his on-field prowess but also on his character and demeanor, as confirmed by the recruitment process and psychological testing. The club recognized Sanders as not only a talented midfielder but also a person of integrity and resilience, qualities that align with their values.
The support network surrounding Sanders extends beyond his teammates and coaches. Former Bulldog Mitch Hannan, despite recently being delisted, extends a helping hand to Sanders, offering guidance and camaraderie as he adjusts to AFL life.
Despite his allegiance to the Bulldogs, Sanders’s connection to North Melbourne remains a significant part of his story. His involvement with the Kangaroos’ Next Generation Academy, although ultimately inconclusive due to AFL regulations, underscores the intertwined paths of possibility and uncertainty in his football journey.
