Attacking midfielder Ryan Clarke says leaving Inglewood United was one of the toughest decisions of his life. Clarke, a mainstay of the senior line-up for the past five and a half years, confirmed last week that he’d worn Inglewood colours for the final time after opting to move back to his home state of New South Wales.

“It was one of the hardest decisions I have made,” said 27-year old Clarke. “I love Perth and I love the Inglewood club and people like a family. I feel lucky to have played for Inglewood and to have met so many fantastic people. But as much as I’m upset to leave, it is the right decision for me at this time.”

Clarke, who has joined Northern NSW side Maitland, is proud of the role he played at Inglewood. “I’m happy Inglewood has become a respected club,” said Clarke, reflecting on his 129-game, 51-goal career with the club. “We had some good players and were good enough to win silverware but, unfortunately, we let ourselves down.”

It was with a wealth of experience gleamed through spells with Genoa (Italy), Universitatea Craiova (Romania) and Marconi Stallions that Clarke agreed to play under then-coach Shane Pryce in early 2010. Possessing a tireless work-rate and a knack of regularly finding the back of the net, he quickly became a favourite with fans and teammates alike.

The midfielder has fond memories of playing under Pryce, and the ill-fated campaign of 2011. “Shane is the best player and coach I have been with,” he said. “We should have won the championship in my second season. We came third (in the league) and were unlucky not to go all the way in the finals.”

Clarke’s creativity and pace down the right flank were rewarded with State team honours in 2012, with two outings against Perth Glory. The following year he trialled with Scottish clubs Greenock Morton and Queen of the South, turning down an offer from the former in preference of remaining at Inglewood.

A scintillating return to the local scene saw Clarke capture the club Fairest and Best, Players Player of the Year and Golden Boots awards. However, it was Inglewood’s win in the inaugural Kramer Memorial Cup, in tribute to the late club president, that Clarke considers the highlight of 2014.

“Playing for the Cup against Perth Glory was a great night,” recalled Clarke, who led a youthful Inglewood side to victory over the A-League side. “Knowing Siggy was an honour, Inglewood would be a much different club today if it wasn’t for him. And I thank the entire Kramer family for being so supportive of me through the years.”

“The Inglewood boys have been like family,” he continued. “Jason Colli and Rikki Smith welcomed me into their families, Blackie (Scott Blackmore) and Juks (Andrija Jukic) are quality on and off the field as well as Rory Grant. I’d also like to thank (former property manager) Florian Tigana, the Yoda of football.”

Clarke opens a new chapter in his career later this week when he debuts for Maitland, who competes in the Northern NSW edition of the National Premier Leagues. “I’m back in Newcastle with an open mind,” he commented. “The future can be anything really, a move into the A-League would be nice.”

With several clubs in Australia, as well as from Indonesia, expressing an interest, it does seem only a matter of time before Clarke steps into the professional arena. In the meantime, he’ll be strapping on his boots for Maitland and spearheading their charge up the competition ladder.

Inglewood United thanks Ryan Clarke for his commitment to the club over the past five and a half years, and wishes him all the best for the future.