Geraldton prepares to say goodbye to well-respected Hawk and Buccaneers player, Ryan Blanchett

Geraldton is preparing to say goodbye to one of its most respected basketball figures and a much-loved teacher, with Ryan Blanchett set to depart for Perth after several highly successful years with the Hawks and Buccaneers.

Blanchett arrived in January 2022, and like many who end up staying, it did not take long for Geraldton to feel like home.

His first taste of local basketball came quickly — a Tuesday night GABA game played in near 40C heat. A tough introduction perhaps, but a fitting one. From that moment on, Blanchett became a fixture of the local game.

Reflecting on his time in the Mid West, Blanchett summed it up simply, saying, “I’ve created long lasting friendships with many fantastic people and learnt plenty of lessons that I will take forward with me in the future.”

On the court, his impact was immediate and lasting. Across 94 games for the Buccaneers and 55 for the Hawks, Blanchett brought size, skill and calm authority.

He played a key role in multiple finals campaigns, including two grand final series wins with the Buccaneers in the past four years, a national finals appearance at RAC Arena, and a memorable trip to Canberra that cemented lifelong bonds within the group.

While silverware and big occasions stand out to supporters, Blanchett sees success through a different lens.

“Some people might say championships define teams,” he said.

“But for me it was seeing the vast amount of hard work that everyone put towards achieving the goals we set. Every training, gym session, recovery swim and film session. Those sorts of things define teams, not championships in my eyes.”

His time with the Hawks also delivered a special chapter, highlighted by the 2024 championship. It was a title that carried extra meaning for a club that had endured lean years throughout the 2010s.

“It was amazing to see the boys who had been through the dog days with the team have the ultimate success,” he said.

“I was really happy for guys like Kyle and Bob Greichen, who saw the 40 to 50 point losses from years prior turn into great games and a championship.”

Beyond the scoreboard, Blanchett became a role model for young players across the region. His message to them has always been grounded and honest.

“No great player or person was ever made in one day, one week or one year,” he said.

“It’s about constantly and consistently striving forward with what it is you want to do or be good at.”

Blanchett also encouraged youngsters to think beyond the boundaries of a small town.

“Geraldton is a small place and there is a big world out there to explore, experience and learn about,” he said.

“The things you learn about yourself when you put yourself out there are far more important than anything on a court or field.”

Off the court, Blanchett has made just as strong an impression through his work as a teacher, quietly shaping young lives with the same patience and discipline he showed as a player.

As he and his wife prepare for the next chapter, the farewell comes with genuine affection.

“We will certainly miss many people,” he said.

“Geraldton has so many things we have fallen in love with over the years. I’m sure in time myself and my wife will be back.”

Geraldton farewells Blanchett with gratitude and pride. Not just for the games won, but for the standard he set, the lessons he shared, and the sense that he was never just passing through. Some players leave stats behind. Others leave a legacy. Ryan Blanchett leaves both.