Ryan was still 17 when he made his first grade debut for Balmain against Western Suburbs at the Sydney Sports Ground in 1972, Balmain winning 15–11.[2]
In his first few seasons at Balmain, the club struggled on the field and claimed the wooden spoon in 1974 after coming last. In 1975, Ryan was appointed as the captain of the Balmain club. In 1976, Ryan earned his first representative honour being selected to represent NSW City.
In 1977, Balmain reached the finals series for the first time in a number of years after finishing fourth. Balmain would reach the semi-final but were defeated by Eastern Suburbs 26–2 at the Sydney Cricket Ground. In 1978, Ryan was selected to play for New South Wales against Queensland. Ryan departed the club at the end of 1978 after being persuaded by John Singleton to sign with Newtown.
In his two seasons at Newtown, Ryan became a regular in the team but the club failed to reach the finals on both occasions. In 1981, Ryan departed Newtown and signed with Western Suburbs. Ryan only played in two first grade matches for Western Suburbs due to a hamstring injury. Ryan returned towards the end of the season and played in the club's reserve grade side which won the premiership against Parramatta.
In 1982, Ryan returned to Balmain and was appointed captain by coach Frank Stanton. Ryan retired following the conclusion of the 1982 season.[3][4][5][6]