Irish League club 'naturally disappointed' as captain 'chooses to continue career elsewhere'
Ards chairman Warren Patton admits the Championship club are “naturally disappointed” that captain Michael Ruddy has departed for Moyola Park despite being offered a fresh contract extension – but insists “we fully respect his decision”.
Ruddy spent time at Crusaders, Ballymena United, Portadown and Dungannon Swifts before returning for a second spell at Ards in 2023.
The 32-year-old made 151 appearances for the Co Down club, leading John Bailie’s men to last season’s Irish Cup semi-finals before losing out to Cliftonville at Windsor Park.
Ruddy’s final match for Ards came in last weekend’s 3-0 defeat against reigning Irish Cup champions Dungannon Swifts and he will now link up with Moyola Park, who sit top of the Premier Intermediate League.
Marty Smith’s side sit as favourites to claim title glory – they’re level on points with Ballyclare Comrades who have played two matches more and three better off than Newry City – and book a spot in the Championship next season with the top-four set to gain second-tier promotion.
Ruddy’s experience will further boost that bid, joining the likes of former Premiership stars Joe McCready, David Parkhouse and Kenny Kane at Mill Meadow.
“While we are naturally disappointed to lose a player of Michael’s experience, we fully respect his decision to take on a new opportunity, despite being offered an extension to his current contract,” said Patton. “On behalf of everyone at Ards FC, I want to express our sincere thanks to Michael for his commitment and professionalism across his two spells with the club.
"He has represented Ards on 151 occasions over five years and his contribution both on and off the pitch has been greatly appreciated. We wish him every success in the next chapter of his distinguished career.”
Smith believes Ruddy’s leadership skills will prove crucial to Moyola as they look to carry momentum into the closing stages of this season.
"Michael will be a significant addition to our squad,” he said. “He has all the qualities we need here at Moyola.
"He is a leader and has a winning mentality. We are delighted to get this done, and we look forward to welcoming Michael to the club and continuing to push on."
Ruddy is looking forward to playing his part in an ambitious Moyola Park project as they aim to scale the Irish League pyramid.
"I am delighted to sign for Moyola,” he said. “Once the call came and I spoke with Marty and the chairman, and they explained the plans they have for the club moving forward, I was excited to be part of it.
"The lads have done tremendous so far to be sitting on top of the league. Hopefully, with my experience, I can help the club and push on to achieve our goals."