The Parramatta Eels have faced a long drought since their last premiership victory in 1986. Despite several near-misses in 2001, 2009, and most recently in 2022, the team has not been able to recapture the championship success they enjoyed in the 1980s.
As they prepare to embark on a new chapter under head coach Jason Ryles, the Eels aim to move past a difficult 2024 season, where they narrowly avoided finishing last in the league by just one game.
Ryles believes that a crucial step toward rebuilding the team’s competitive edge involves integrating former players more deeply into the club’s culture. He emphasized the importance of their involvement in fostering a winning mentality within Parramatta.
During an introductory interview, Ryles expressed his enthusiasm for having club legends involved, stating, “The more they can get engaged, the better.” He sees connecting with these former players as integral to his vision for the club’s culture.
Ryles plans to weave the club’s history and successes into the team’s current identity. “Our communication will reflect our connections to past players and our achievements,” he noted. He is eager to involve past players whenever possible, suggesting that if a former player is nearby, they should feel welcomed to join in the club’s activities.
He acknowledged that these legends have played a significant role in shaping the club’s legacy, saying, “They’ve laid the foundation for where we are today. Now it’s our responsibility to carry that legacy forward and uphold the proud traditions they established.”
As Ryles prepares to take charge in 2025, his goal is clear: to improve the team’s performance and restore its place as a competitive force in the league.
