In this era of full time professional NRL players, those who finish their careers as one club players are fast becoming the minority. Even rarer are those who clock up the magical 200 game figure for their club. This week’s round 23 clash between the Eels and the Knights will see Tim Mannah lead the Parramatta Eels onto the field in what will be his 200th appearance for the club. It’s an occasion which warrants the recognition of all Eels supporters.
Local Junior Made Good
A Guildford Owls junior, Mannah came through the Eels junior representative ranks before making grade as a member of Parramatta’s inaugural NYC squad. Already demonstrating the leadership qualities that would be recognised by NRL coaches, the 108kg prop was given the honour of captaining this under 20 side which ultimately finished 5th in the 2008 season.
In that season, Mannah made his presence felt with faultless defence, bullocking charges and rapid play the balls. Near impossible to turn onto his back in tackles, the powerful front rower helped the Eels pack gain ascendancy through the ruck. It was a quality which would gain the attention of 2009 Eels NRL coach, Daniel Anderson.
What A Start!
Tim Mannah didn’t have to bide his time for his NRL debut. The 2009 season kicked off with Parra’s future captain listed in the Eels round 1 clash against the Warriors. Coming off the bench at Mt Smart Stadium in a 26 to 18 loss, it wasn’t a winning debut for the newest Eel, but the season would evolve in near fairytale fashion.
Parramatta’s incredible charge to the 2009 Grand Final is well documented. Only a salary cap cheating Melbourne Storm team prevented the Eels from claiming the premiership, and the youthful Mannah was making a name for himself.
Few Eels supporters will forget the Preliminary Final that year. Arguably the highlight match of 2009, and billed as the Sydney Grand Final, over 74000 Parra and Canterbury supporters swarmed into ANZ Stadium. And they were there to witness Tim Mannah’s first NRL try as the Eels ran out 22 to 12 victors.
What a match! What a first season!
By season’s end, Mannah had featured in 28 matches for the Blue and Gold, taking the field in every premiership and finals game for the club. He must have been thinking, “How good is this NRL caper?”
Personal Achievements Soon Follow
Although the 2010 season marked the beginning of Parramatta’s long absence from finals football, it also brought the first of Tim Mannah’s major individual milestones.
In only his second season in the top grade, Mannah was selected to make his Origin debut for NSW in game 3 of that series. This followed his earlier appearance for City in their annual clash with Country, an honour he would achieve across four consecutive seasons.
Although the Blues suffered a 23 to 18 loss to the Maroons, the debutant from the Eels made enough of an impression from the bench to be earmarked for selection in the 2011 series. The plaudits continued for his ability to gain metres through the ruck and follow it up with rapid play the balls.
The second match in the 2011 Origin Series would mark Mannah’s elevation from the bench to the starting side. His Eels may have been struggling in the Premiership, but the tough forward was maintaining his high standards at both club and Origin level. Although this series would be Mannah’s last as a Blue, he would take the field for the Prime Ministers XIII in 2012 and continue to earn a City Origin jersey until 2013.
Within the club, the accolades would continue for Mannah. The prestigious Ken Thornett Medal is the highest honour for Parramatta players, and in 2015 the Eels captain was recognised by his peers as the best player in that season. For this loyal clubman, it must have been an incredibly humbling experience. It was an award which was richly deserved.
Tim Mannah proudly displays the Ken Thornett Medal.
Leadership Is Bestowed
The 2013 season was a dark one for the Eels faithful, and it was no doubt a tough year to be captaining the team. In his only season as Parramatta coach, Ricky Stuart appointed two 25 year old co-captains – Tim Mannah and Jarryd Hayne.
There was little to cheer about that year as the Eels slumped to their second successive wooden spoon.
What a learning curve it must have been for Mannah!
It would have been difficult enough to find words of inspiration on the field for a team getting pumped on a weekly basis – I can only imagine what it would have been like to sound positive in press conferences. As always, the articulate prop never shirked his responsibilities.
After a brief captaincy hiatus under Brad Arthur, Mannah again shoulders the captaincy responsibilities in a resurgent 2017 Eels team. He’s spoken about how excited the players are, not just about winning games, but even to turn up for training. It must be a remarkable difference for a captain whose seen those dark cellar dwelling times. The tough times must make the good times so much sweeter!
The Eels Honour Roll
This week, Tim Mannah will become only the 12th Eels player to make 200 appearances for the club. The list is as follows:
Nathan Hindmarsh – 330 games
Brett Kenny – 265 games
Luke Burt – 264 games
Nathan Cayless – 259 games
Ray Price – 258 games
Peter Sterling – 227 games
Bob O’Reilly – 216 games
Michael Cronin – 216 games
Mark Laurie – 205 games
Daniel Wagon – 204 games
Fuifui Moimoi – 201 games
Tim Mannah – 200 games (after this Newcastle match)
The Man
It’s impossible to write about Tim Mannah without recognising the work of the Mannah Foundation. Established in 2013 to honour and continue the community work of Jon Mannah, it’s also a testimony to Tim’s dedication to make a difference in people’s lives. The Eels captain has featured in the NRL’s Ken Stephen Medal short lists, and received the 2014 Parramatta Citizen of the Year award, a mark of the impact he has made in the community.
The Mannah Foundation continues the important work of Jon Mannah.
For the final word, I’m sure Brad Arthur won’t mind if I quote from a comment he made to me earlier this year. He said this: “Everything that Tim has achieved has come through hard work.”
I reckon this sums up Tim Mannah the player, the man, perfectly.
Best wishes in game 200 Tim!
It’s a wonderful milestone.
Eels forever!
Sixties
Tim’s been a fan favourite since day one. I look forward to a few more seasons of bullocking runs and fast play if the balls before he hands the duties over to the likes of Daniel Alvaro’s.
His form lately (reportedly on the back of a changed diet) augers well for the future.
Excellent Timmy Tribute Sixties. Being a Timmy fan since his emergence in the U20’s I was pleased to see he had even exceeded my recollections.
I would also have to agree with Trouser Eel and hope that Timmy continues to develop as a front-rower over the next couple of years so he can continue to be an amazing example to the young men that come through the Parramatta system both on and off the field.
As you quoted BA having said. “everything Tim Mannah has achieved, has come through hard work”!
Have a great week Tim Mannah and I hope you play the house down on Friday night.
Go Parra.
Rowdy, Tim is the epitome of what a role model should be. Loyal, dedicated, hard working and someone that only brings credit to himself and his club. I’m sure his association with the Eels will continue long after his football days.
All the best on your 200th game Tim. It’s such a great achievement one that you should be proud of.
It’s an exclusive club – only 12 members. There’s some legends on that list.
Well said Al, and it’s one that I’m sure all Eels fans will appreciate too.
Congrats on the 200th game Tim. You are a true gentleman of the game and worthy leader. I remember watching you in 09 and thought “this kid can play”. Your accomplishments are testament to the qualities you exhibit both on and off the field. Enjoy Friday night and best wishes. Adam
Well said Adam. I was going to add a similar comment about watching Tim in NYC in 2008. He looked like a future NRL leader back then.
Great recognition for a great Club-man, Sixties! You always know what you are going to get with Tim. He has had to battle on in a team that hasn’t performed for many years yet he always did it with a smile on his face.
He deserves a huge crowd on Friday and I will be there with the family cheering him and the boys on…..go Parra!
He is a genuine club man Jason. I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with you and your family many times at Eels matches, at Ringrose park and at training. So I know you’ve seen the work that Tim puts in, and you’ve seen him at Wenty supporting his mates playing in that grade. Well said mate.
I’ve got the upmost respect for Tim mannah both on and off the field. He embodies what it is to be a professional athlete and a gentlemen.
He’s only ever showed dedication, passion, grit and hard work. He’s continued to put his body on the line for the jersey and I can’t thank him enough.
Thank you Tim and good luck for your 200th game!
Perfectly worded Jack. Nailed it!
Tim has been with us through thick and thin. He has been through a very hard time with his brothers illness and untimely passing yet he never wavered in his duties to our beloved club. Congratulations Tim may you go on and play for as long as your body holds up, all the best mate.Well written Sixties
Fine words Joe. When the going got tough, Tim just stayed stronger.
Nice tribute Sixties and well done Tim. It is such a delight to have a Club Captain that is physically resilient and morally upstanding. Rarely have I ever met a person of fame who is so humble, gentle and stoic. We are indeed blessed that we can celebrate Tim the man and Tim the footy player!
Thanks for the response Walpy. I reckon Tim’s one of those players who will be remembered for both his footy and his impact on others in the community.
Hope he reads this. Considered and heartfelt congratulations from appreciative fans. Hope there is many more games left in the Eels Captain yet
I hope he gets the chance to read these replies too John. i reckon our captain will always be a big part of this club.
Tim has played for his club ,state and country that what every JNR league player dreams of and not one bit of trouble hold you head high Tim congrats and enjoy the game
That’s why he’s is so well respected AAE. He has always brought credit to himself and the Eels.
Tim Mannah, I salute you.
As do we all Manginina.
Great read and well deserved for a great clubman.
Such a shame and dare I saw farcical from the NRL that it’s a 6pm kick off. we go to most home games,and many away games in Sydney, but with a minimum 2 1/2 trip to the game from our home on the Sth Coast we simply will find it impossible to get their by 6pm, especially if you have children at school and live out of Sydney.
Please fans in Sydney get out to support Timmy and be loud for all those fans who can not make it. I know my family in Sydney are going, my brother even cheekily game BA’s letter to his boss for a laugh , his boss is a dogs supporter and he has given my brother an early mark from work. His boss wants someone to enjoy his footy side because he is not.
On Timmy, how many times did he front the media last year, defend the club, defend team mates and praise us fans. On Friday I hope everyone praises him, the wonderful and selfless person he is as he certainly deserves it. He has contributed much to our club on the field but just as importantly off it. Our praise and cheering will be loud, just from home unfortunately.
Shelley, it’s such a shame that the scheduling makes it impossible for you to get there.
It’s wonderful that someone whose endured the tough times, like Tim, gets the opportunity to lead the team out in the better times.
Tim Mannah won me over as an all round top fella when the eels came to Griffith to play the panthers back in 2009…
met them down at the local pub, and was able to convince the pub owner to open longer for the boys.and timmy was great fun.life of the party. made me a fan for life.
Heres hoping for a win in his 200th and maybe a certain trophy for him to lift b4 his eels career is finished.
Congrats mate and all the best.
Great story Matt. He’s pretty good at doing “the worm” dance move, so I wonder whether that got a run that night?
Stop !!! Its Mannah time !!! Sorry I know it’s not mine but veryNot only is he a champion on the paddock, he’s a champion off it. He is the very Blue and Gold fabric of The Parramatta Eels, part of the furniture so to speak. Timmy is a quiet achiever but don’t let that fool you as he is a real toiler who gives more than his all every game he plays … and always has !!! Hard to believe that his 200th game is here … I can honestly say that I have enjoyed watching Tim reach this milestone and become the player, the leader that he is.
Thank you Timmy Mannah you champion … looking forward to traveling our 4 hour trip to Anz on Friday to see the big fella going hard, as always, for the Mighty Blue and Golds
Well said Tristan. I know you make this long trip to follow the Eels, but that’s a big effort to make it for this early start. Glad you can be there for this special game.
Bloody night shift brain !!! It should read ” I know it’s not mine but very appropriate” … sorry
Congratulations Tim on a wonderful milestone. You are a class act and a gentleman who I am sure is about to rise to the occasion on the footy field over the next 2 months. Be like Tyrone Power in the last scene of The Mark Of Zorro (1940) – a gentleman whom when pushed rises to the occasion. In fact “Tyrone” would bean excellent nickname for you! Best wishes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nB8tiSMCwRE
PT – you always find that reference to classic movies or stars! Class act – very appropriate in describing Tim.
Tim Mannah, huge heart, all class. The loyalty and endurance he has demonstrated will rightly earn him a place among the best to pull on the blue and gold in Parra’s proud history. Oh to put a premiership ring on his finger before he retires. …..
His place in Parra’s history is richly deserved PHIL. Wouldn’t a premiership ring be a superb cap on the career!
Hearty congratulations go out to Tim Mannah on achieving a such a wonderful milestone. I recall hearing that a NRL player on average plays just 41 games in a career and to have Tim clocking up 200 since his debut in 2009 is nothing short of outstanding considering the position he plays.
Guildford breed them toughs as with Tim, but its rare to have his balance of sportsmanship and leadership and its little wonder that he is captain of our great club.
I’m sure his teammates and fans alike will lift tomorrow night to do all they can to help him celebrate his 200th with a victory.