He was among the 20 people, including Ards' players, members, and supporters, who helped raise the cash in aid of Movember, a charity which focusses on raising awareness for men's health issues, both mental and physical.
The aim is for fundraisers to grow a moustache over the 30 days of November to start conversations on the issues affecting men.
Together, the team topped the charts of teams raising money in Northern Ireland, coming in 17th overall in the UK by raising £4,600.
However, as the club celebrated news of their fundraising success, they became aware that one of their players, Ryan Mills, had taken his own life on the 2nd of December.
Ards RFC Honorary Secretary Ian Wallace said:
"Everyone within Ards Rugby Football Club will remain broken-hearted that Ryan found it difficult to come forward to discuss these issues with anyone.
“His death has highlighted the importance of raising awareness of mental health issues within sports clubs, and the benefits of creating an environment where people can come together and talk to others about the struggles that they may be experiencing within their own head space."
The club is now planning to honour Ryan later in the year by taking part in 'Millsy's Movember', this time aiming to be the largest fundraisers in not only Northern Ireland, but the UK and Ireland, too.
The Movember Charity provided a certificate as a thank you to Ryan, and Ards RFC, for their fundraising efforts.
This was presented to Ryan’s family when they were special guests at the lunch prior to the Q2 game against Coleraine on Saturday 29th January 2022 at Hamilton Park.
Tributes were paid by officials of both clubs in what was an emotional day for all concerned, and special thanks from Ards goes to Coleraine for the words of support expressed by their Vice President, Trevor Jackson.
Ryan's parents, Martin and Heather, his sister Chloe, her partner Dean, and his 2 nieces were presented with framed certificates from the Movember charity by Ards RFC's Honorary Secretary, Ian Wallace, one of which will be placed on the wall in the clubhouse to commemorate him and his contribution to raising money for men's health.