Ballymoney bid farewell to stalwart Ruth
Thursday, 20 November 2008
Ruth Sutherland shows all her skill and experience, as she once again plays the ball out of defense to her midfield.
THERE were a few tears shed on Saturday at the Joey Dunlop Stadium when Ballymoney Hockey Club stalwart Ruth Sutherland announced that she was hanging up her hockey stick.
Having joined the club from School Ruth had played an integral role in the success of the County Antrim outfit, however, her good news that she is expecting her first child in May, led to her decision to retire for the game for the immediate future.
Ruth explained: "I am retiring temporarily at this stage. I will reassess things after the baby is born. Stepping down from playing will bring about a massive change in my life. I have been playing for Ballymoney for 15 consecutive seasons and hardly missed a game, apart from any of those played on a Sunday or for special occasions.
“It will be a major wrench because Saturday has always been the day for hockey and it will require a big adjustment, however, it is the start of a new chapter in my life."
Having joined the club over 15 years ago Ruth has seen many changes at Ballymoney and has watched the club develop to become one of the 'big names' in Ulster hockey.
“I was playing for the Dalriada school team and our teachers encouraged us to join Ballymoney Club and that's how I became involved," added Ruth. "When I started we were down through the qualifying sections and it was just at the time when we started to make our way through the ranks to the top flight.
“What has been most satisfying is the fact that not only did we climb into the top flight but we have stayed there and are now established as one of the main clubs in the Province." With a long career behind her Ruth has a wealth of memories but there is one which stands out for her. "The most important day for me was the 2001 Irish Cup final when we beat Pegasus on penalty flicks and then going into Europe.
“However, I have also seen so many changes which bring me pleasure such as the development within the sport at youth level. It is also great to see players in the top flight receiving more support. There is greater commitment required from these players, they are doing the jobs of professionals without actually being professional and so it is great to see them getting more assistance."
Despite an illustrious career in which Ruth Sutherland has been described as 'the best central defender in Ireland never to receive a cap' following her decision never to play on a Sunday due to her religious commitments, the Ballymoney lass has no regrets.
“Yes I would love to have played for my country, that is what every sportsman or woman strives for," continued Ruth. "However I have no regrets whatsoever.
“The decision I took was for more important reasons and I have had other experiences. It was the right decision for me and I have no regrets and given the same choice I would make it again.
“I have had an amazing career which I look back on with pride and although I wont be playing on Saturday's I still intend to remain closely involved with the club.
“I am hoping to be involved with the umpiring side of the game more and I am still a committee member and will be attending meetings.
“As I said to the girls when I told them on Saturday, I will still be there on a Saturday, I may not be playing but I will be there cheering them on from the side lines!"
