A PORTLAND United footballer has scooped the Royal Marine Commandos’ player of the year award.
Ryan Mckechnie, a former Marine, was presented with the award following a clash between the Royal Marines and the Parachute Regiment at Exmouth FC.
The 27-year-old attended Budmouth School and prior to joining the Royal Marine Commandos in 2011 was on Weymouth’s books and played in the infamous Rushden & Diamonds clash featuring a number of 16-year-olds that saw the Terras beaten 9-0.
He gained his green beret after undertaking 32 weeks of arduous training and immediately started representing the Royal Marines at both football and squash.
He was then able to commit to playing football for Portland United where he has worn the blue shirt since 2013.
Royal Marines’ team manager Shaun Welburn complimented McKechnie on his standard of play and his ability to play in any position, plus his attitude in giving 100 per cent for 90 minutes.
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