Benfica

From Bray to Benfica: Elliott Ryan's Portuguese Dream!

Meet Bray's own Elliott Ryan, the rugby star taking Lisbon by storm!

Elliott Ryan, a scrum-half from Bray, has found his calling on the rugby pitch with Benfica in Lisbon, Portugal. Leaving his hometown behind, Elliott embraced a new adventure in one of Europe’s sunniest locales. His journey from the lush green fields of Ireland to the beautiful beaches of Portugal has been nothing short of exhilarating. With each try scored, Elliott is not only making waves in the local rugby scene but is also inspiring others to chase their dreams abroad.

Settled comfortably in Lisbon, the budding star has become enamored with the vibrant culture and lifestyle the city offers. Elliott's passion for the game remains steadfast, but it's the Portuguese spirit and hospitality that have truly captured his heart. “The people here are so welcoming, and being able to play for such a prestigious club like Benfica is a dream come true,” he shared in a recent interview. With the club's support, Ryan is honing his skills and looking to make a name for himself on a larger stage.

But Elliott's aspiration doesn't end with club rugby. The ambitious Bray native has his sights set on donning the colors of Portugal. "Playing for the Portuguese national team would be incredible! I feel a unique connection to this country now," he expressed. His aspirations echo the sentiments of many athletes who seek to represent a country that feels like home, even if it wasn't the one they were born in. With rugby gaining traction in Portugal, Ryan’s ambition aligns perfectly with the nation's growing interest in the sport.

As the rugby world watches Elliott Ryan’s journey unfold, his story serves as a reminder that bold moves can lead to remarkable opportunities. He’s not just playing the sport he loves; he’s also becoming an ambassador of sorts for rugby in Portugal. Who knows? If he keeps up his stellar performance, fans may soon see him bringing his Irish roots to the Portuguese rugby landscape!

Did you know that rugby is one of the fastest-growing sports in Portugal? With a national team that has steadily improved, they are now making their mark in European competitions. Furthermore, Benfica’s rugby team, established in 1933, is one of the oldest and most successful in the country, making Elliott's journey all the more significant. As he continues to pursue his dreams in Lisbon, there’s no telling how far the young scrum-half will go!