The Bowler Who Writes Books: Ryan Dennis on All-Ireland Finals & Deadlines

By Galway Rapparees

We sat down with Ryan Dennis, bowler for the Galway Rapparees (and literary author in his non-rounder’s life).

From Western New York State, Ryan has lived in Galway for twelve years. “There’s a sense of community in Ireland that’s hard to find in other places,” he said.

Originally from a baseball and then softball background, he was immediately hooked at his first training with the Galway Rapparees.

“There was good banter among the Rapparees. Or what the kids call ‘vibes’ these days.”

He appreciates the competitive spirit of rounders, and also how teams get together over sandwiches and tea after matches.

Ryan was the bowler for the Rapparees when they won the Junior Mixed All-Ireland in 2024 and the Intermediate Men’s title in 2025. When pressed which title meant more to him, he wouldn’t answer.

“I was just glad to share both moments with whoever was on the team.”

Bowling Under Pressure

As a bowler, how much responsibility does he feel in big games?

“I think bowlers know that you’re probably not going to win the game for your team, but you can surely lose it for them. Everyone around you has worked really hard all season, and you don’t want to nullify that by throwing meatballs or walking batters.”

Your stats in 2025 were outstanding – just over two balls per batter and hardly any walks. Do you track that yourself?

“No, I don’t worry about any stats. At the end of the match I think about the at-bats where the batter got the better of me and try to decide what I should have done different. That’s about it.”

What’s the key to that level of control and consistency?

“For me, I find that whether a pitch will be good or bad is usually already determined before I start the delivery. It’s all about accessing the right mental space…and then later in the game using the mind to convince an aging body to do things it says it can’t.”

Ryan Dennis

Referees & Reputation

You’ve had a few run-ins with referees over your bowling style – misunderstood or pushing limits?

“Ha, I’m not thinking about pushing any limits, honestly. Especially since trying to be clever would only take my focus away from the actual bowling. Maybe I have a delivery or style referees aren’t as used to? Then, of course, once you get a reputation it grows legs and every team will try to convince a ref that I’m doing something wrong.”

Ryan added that referee feedback can often be inconsistent, and it’s up to him to adjust on the day.

One of his toughest moments came during last year’s men’s intermediate semi-final when a referee ruled his delivery illegal.

“It was a tough adjustment to make and tough to keep the composure when a ref was calling bad balls on the same delivery I had for three years.”

Ryan Dennis

Team Culture & Characters

Ryan reiterated how privileged he feels to be part of the Galway Rapparees, describing the club as extremely welcoming.

Who brings the most energy?

“Gavin Mulhall, the bannisteor of the Intermediate Mixed team. If I could get a pep talk from him every day, I’d be so much better at life.”

Hardest teammate to impress?

“Rory McGarvey. That Canadian just leaves you on the ground. But we love him anyway.”

Writing Life

Ryan is launching his second book, Barn Gothic, at Kenny’s Bookshop in Galway on January 23rd at 6pm.

The memoir explores his family’s struggle to keep a small dairy farm going and the political context surrounding it.

What’s your daily writing process?

“Usually it’s just sitting down with a notebook and scratching words out and hoping they make sense later. It’s a lot like bowling – trying to get into a hard-to-reach headspace and making hay when you do.”

Has sport helped your writing?

“Trying to be a writer is a rollercoaster. It’s meant a lot to put all those frustrations into a stupid yellow ball and throw it past someone.”

Tougher – an All-Ireland final or book deadline?

“A bad final, people hate you for a season. A bad book, people hate you for a lifetime.”

What’s Next?

“Our men’s team is buzzing for senior rounders. The intermediate mixed want to join them. And I’m really looking forward to sharing the book with the rounders crowd.”

📍 Book Launch: Barn Gothic – Kenny’s Bookshop, Galway
🗓 January 23rd
⏰ 6pm

Follow Galway Rapparees for more player features and club news.