Tom Ruddy

Football career Ruddy was born in Stockton-on-Tees and played his early football with Stockton Shamrocks. In October 1924 he joined Darlington, then played in the Football League Third Division North, as a trainee. Darlington was promoted at the end of the season as champions and Ruddy became a professional in the summer of 1925.

Described as a "quick forward, with a hard shot",

In May 1928, Ruddy moved to Derby County of the First Division where in years he only made 22 league appearances, scoring nine goals, He then dropped down to the Second Division with Chesterfield in December 1931, In the next season, Ruddy played the first six matches at inside-left, before losing out to Coates. Ruddy was recalled to the side for the last time in November when he made three appearances before being dropped in favor of Arthur Holt.

Ruddy was released from his contract in the 1934 close season and returned to the north-east, playing in the North Eastern League with Spennymoor United.