He is rugby league’s latest excitement machine, an electrifying fullback, voted the man of the match in his club’s 2020 grand final victory, and touted to go on to higher honours in the game.

Raised in Kellyville, Ryan Papenhuyzen began his league career as a teenager with a Sydney club, before accepting an offer to head to Melbourne, and the rest is part of his rapidly building history.

Since making his debut in April 2019, Papenhuyzen has not only become a regular fixture in the line-up, but with his flowing mullet, he has become a cult hero of fans. 

But away from rugby league, Ryan Papenhuyzen also has a passion for greyhounds.

“While GRNSW has been doing some outstanding work raising the stature of the sport with their feature races and everything they do on the racetrack, I think it’s also important to create more awareness about the work they have done in recent years on the welfare front, particularly with rehoming through Greyhounds As Pets,” Ryan said.

“While I got a lot of enjoyment racing my greyhound Gary’s Gift, and celebrating each of his wins, what truly made me happy was seeing him find a loving home when his racing days were over.

“Seeing him find a new home as a pet was as satisfying as winning any race, and I am keen to work with GAP to promote the work they do, so that more people can experience what wonderful animals and pets greyhounds are.

“They are amazing. Their temperament is fantastic, and they are honestly one of the best pets you can have. They don’t take too much maintenance, all they want to do is come home and sit on the couch, and they make great companions.

“Back in Melbourne you see them everywhere. They are probably the most popular dog there now.”