The Parramatta Eels have announced the appointment of Jason Ryles as their head coach from 2025 through to the end of the 2028 season.
Ryles, currently serving as an assistant coach at the Melbourne Storm under Craig Bellamy, will replace interim head coach Trent Barrett on a four-year deal.
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Ryles began his coaching career in 2014, and has been an Assistant Coach with the Melbourne Storm between 2016 and 2020, which included four grand finals and two premierships wins.
He was chosen over several high-profile candidates, including veteran coach Brian Smith and Sharks assistant Josh Hannay.
Eels Chairman Sean McElduff said: “We are delighted to welcome Jason to the Parramatta Eels.”
“We believe Jason is the ideal person to build a strong connection within the playing group, across the Club and with the passionate Parramatta Eels fanbase.”
Expressing his enthusiasm, Ryles said, “I am incredibly honoured to be appointed head coach of the Parramatta Eels. This is a club with a rich history and a passionate fan base. I look forward to coaching these young men.”
Since their grand final appearance against the Panthers in 2022, Parramatta has struggled, failing to make the finals the following year and winning just four games this season.
Parramatta chief executive Jim Sarantinos highlighted Ryles’ potential to rebuild the club.
“We are entering a new era for our football program, and we’re thrilled to secure someone of Jason’s calibre as the leader of our NRL team moving forward. Under Jason’s leadership, our club will be challenging for premierships.”
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