Do you know the parable of the Prodigal Son?
The parable begins with a young man (let’s call him Jarryd), who asks his father (Parramatta) to give him his share of the estate so he can leave and become his own man (in the NFL).
The son travels to a distant country (the USA) and wastes all his wealth (his best playing years). He now finds himself with almost no money (respect of fans) to his name.
“I will get up and go to my father (the Eels), and will tell him, ‘Father (Parra), I have sinned against you. I am no more worthy to be called your son. Make me as one of your hired servants (put me in the centres, on a reduced wage).”
With the proviso that we are smack bang in the NRL’s traditional silly season, the media drums are beating loudly that Jarryd Hayne is on track for a return to his western Sydney home.
Both the Eels and the Plane are denying that any discussions have been held, something not unexpected given that Hayne is currently under contract at the Titans and is in the middle of his World Cup commitments with Fiji.
Recently, I wrote my 2017 Season Review of the Eels. In this post, I included a wish list for 2018. It included an impact prop and an X-Factor in Jarryd Hayne. My reasoning was simple – the loss of Semi had removed a player who could turn a match with a flash of brilliance. To my way of thinking, that player is undoubtedly Hayne.
If media reports are to be believed, we could be on the cusp of this unlikely return becoming a reality.
For some Eels supporters, any announcement of a contract being offered to Hayne would be greeted as warmly as a Henry Perenara appointment to a Parramatta match. I can understand that reaction, having publicly voiced my displeasure about Hayne’s social media comments regarding the “non-offer” from the Eels in 2016.
That press conference.
However, from day 1, it’s been obvious that the Plane’s move to the Titans was anything but a match made in heaven. From the absurd Fox Sports player cam focus during his first outing, to the apparent collapse in the team structure which had been successful at the Gold Coast, it’s been a downhill slide for the dual Dally M medalist.
The legacy of match winning performances with the Eels, spectacular tries and the headline grabbing adventure in the NFL are rapidly becoming a distant memory as a host of media commentators and former players are joining the chorus of critics of Hayne’s attitude and efforts.
There can be no excuses for his failure to deliver at the Titans. He signed the contract. He is a professional footballer with a job to do.
Nonetheless, we can also accept that his heart has never been in the move.
Surely the red flags were being waved conspicuously in that very first press conference with the Titans when rather than being excited about his new club, he spoke dejectedly about not being able to return to the Eels.
What would any potential return to the Parramatta club mean for Hayne?
In the short term – less money and harder work.
The Plane in full flight for the Eels.
This Eels team has grown immeasurably under Brad Arthur since Hayne’s departure. They train hard and the team spirit and dynamic is light years ahead of the 2013 version inherited by Arthur and his coaching staff.
It’s long been acknowledged that as the lone superstar in blue and gold colours, Hayne was used to being treated somewhat differently to his teammates. Allowances would be made, especially if niggling ‘injuries’ were present. And to be fair, he wasn’t on his own.
The team I watch at training has transformed from a group that contained players who might ‘rest’ on the sideline for the slightest of bumps or strains to one which busts their guts even when they’re significantly injured. I know of players who have had to be forced to don the injured singlet at training, such is their desire to train as hard or harder than the bloke next to them.
This is the culture that Jarryd Hayne will be returning to. There are no exceptions. People looking for exceptions are told to train at Ringrose Park.
Of course there was a reason for Hayne being treated differently before. He was “the champ”, the bloke you throw the ball to when you needed points – it was like his role had never changed from his junior days.
The 2018 team does not need Hayne.
In days gone by there was no Jennings, no Gutho, no French, no Taka, no Moses, no Brown, no King, no Scott. Along with close mate Tim Mannah, only a couple of forwards have played alongside Hayne. Even Norman only played one season with Hayne.
So why would we entertain the thought of his return?
I touched on his ability to be an X-Factor, but in the team sense, Hayne would complement the wealth of talent already in the Eels squad and do so with the assurance that the team would not be reliant upon him for points.
This could be a version of Jarryd Hayne that Eels fans have never seen before. A Hayne that players like Moses, Norman or Brown puts into space. A Hayne backing up a Michael Jennings bust or passing the ball into a flying Bevan French. A Hayne not constantly under pressure from a defensive line being little more than a turnstile in front of him. And that’s not detracting from Hayne’s defence. He is arguably one of the best defensive fullbacks in rugby league.
Personally, I believe that we may even witness the best of Jarryd Hayne should he return to the Eels in 2018. In fact, I’m confident that we would.
A good coach like BA would not just look at what a player will bring to the club, but what he as a coach can do for the player because ultimately this will benefit the team. If Arthur makes the decision that he wants Hayne in the team, I know that he believes he can add to Hayne’s game. This should instil confidence in Eels fans.
Before wrapping up this post, there’s another signing likelihood to discuss – Tony Williams.
With media also reporting his return to the Eels, it’s a homecoming that seems to have come out of the blue.
T – Rex at his best is a destructive force.
Although his career has been a roller coaster ride of dominant performances mixed with lacklustre efforts, Williams certainly has the size that the Eels pack lacks. Should he sign, I’d be looking for both an increased work rate and consistently aggressive football.
Let me pose this question. If Craig Bellamy were to recruit T-Rex, would we not all be thinking “He’ll probably get the best out of him. He knows what he’s doing.”?
I would take the same attitude with BA, especially given his track record with players such as Gutho, Taka, Brown and Moses. Each player has taken their game at other clubs to a new level after joining the Eels.
When all is said and done, any signing only occurs because of Brad Arthur’s desire to work with a player, and therein lies the key.
So back to the Prodigal Son.
In the parable, the father throws his arms around his son, forgives his prior sins, and restores his status as his beloved son.
I wonder how the Blue & Gold army will respond.
Eels forever,
Sixties
(With thanks to Mitch)
Great post Sixties; love the take on the prodigal son. Whatever happens I think that a few people will be surprised.
To my way of thinking the ability is still there but the inspiration has been missing. Cue the Eels.
Correct. When your hearts in it then you’ll move mountains.
Love it mate. Great analogy’s and v interesting times ahead. You’re spot on – BA would need to be convinced these two players are buying into Parra; and if so then come on down.
One strong prop please and I almost choked when I saw the P word (Perenara). Noooo
Ha! Thought you’d enjoy a Henry P reference!
Buying into Parra is a key component of every recruit that BA considers. If they sign, they’ve convinced BA of their motivation.
“Kill a fatted calf” in anticipation of his return….
Great to hear from you Parra Pete! Hope the move went well.
If I had your talent I would have written that exactly the same. The key here is that BA is no dill. He is in charge and has all the say these days and rightly so.
Thanks Matt. You’re spot on about BA.
Strangely enough, when TRex left the Eels, at a wrap with a few fans at the Rose and Crown his departing words were, ” I will be back again to play at Parramatta, that’s a promise”
Guess someone had to want him, but he Mateo and Inu, all said that at different times in similar situations, They were a band of brothers when in the reggies , coming through
Derek, to me TREX has been the biggest disappointment in the nrl. Someone who could have been one of the most damaging players….shame. I only hope if he does come back he puts in for the Parra jersey, or he shouldn’t turn up.
Mitchy, the disappointment comes when the difference between his best and worst performances is so great. And too often. Here’s hoping that BA can draw out the consistency in performance.
Yes to true and we only hope it does work out for parra..
I can remember Mateo saying the same Derek. With Williams the only one likely to get that opportunity, let’s hope he makes the best of it.
Well written Sixties. Only one point I’d disagree with:
“He is arguably one of the best defensive fullbacks in rugby league.”
That may have been true prior to his stint with the Titans, definitely NOT during his stint there according to my viewing of his efforts. He was pathetic and totally disinterested.
I’m in two minds regarding his possible return. I used to be a great fan of his, now not so. Glad BA is the one making this call.
Can’t disagree about 2017, but I’m looking back at his defence with the Eels. The miracle try saving tackles on the line. That tackle on Sonny Bill!
I’d have him back in a heartbeat.
Let’s hope it comes to fruition mate.
I see a lot of bile and venom being directed at Hayne in social media (and I’m talking about Parra fans here.) It befuddles me. I don’t think he deserves it. While he was under a Parra contract he did plenty of good by us.
I wouldn’t want to be Hayne (the constant pressure to perform in a team sport) and if the rumours are true I wouldn’t want to be BA (making the decision about if he can get Hayne to rise up week in week out)
In BA we trust, in him we must.
I was guilty of criticising Hayne for taking up the Titans offer. However, should he return, the team has developed even further in his absence. Who knows, we may never have recruited Moses. Maybe we wouldn’t have bore witness to Gutho’s form from the custodian role.
Perhaps the timing now is just right.
What a brilliant analogy with the prodigal son (I would say that eh)? The reality is though, when I read the first paragraph to my wife, she said. I said Hayne would come back as the prodigal son months ago! and she did. Her hope was as much for the Hayne who had fallen so far (in her eyes), as it was for the club and our fans, she being one of them/us.
Personally, my hope is high for both Jarryd and TRex to return home under the guidance of the best coach we have had since Jack Gibson. BA, the bush coach eh? You don’t hear much from those fools anymore and not surprisingly, never an apology passed their wicked lips!
I do recall you telling me about your lovely wife’s comments regarding Hayne’s return Rowdy. Both Hayne and T-Rex may yet get that opportunity to fulfil the promise so evident in their younger years. Here’s hoping.
Like you Sixties, i’m pretty excited for Hayne to return. He’s a bloke that’s got a point to prove, he’ll have to take a pay cut – the ingredients are all there. It would be interesting to see how he fits in positionally, do you think Taka might be the bloke that misses out or will BA change his role perhaps?
Thanks mate. There’s little doubt that Taka is one of the most versatile players in the Eels team. I also suspect that he’d enjoy being in the action a little more. Perhaps a back row role awaits?
Another well written column Sixties. I am so up in the air about Hayne coming back, so all I will say is this, I trust in BA and if he sees Hayne fit to return then I will go with it.
But I will be keeping princess’s tiara ready just in case. haha
Cheers Colmac. Obviously I have faith in BA, but if in some strange universe BA sought my opinion, I’d be telling him to sign Hayne.
Couldn’t agree more Colmac.
I agree completely with Colmac. BA knows exactly what he is dealing with and obviously believes that he can get the best out of Hayne.
Like Colmac I will rely on the judgement of BA. He has all the facts and details.
Yes mate, a coach like BA will recruit people that he believes he can develop as a player – no matter the age. If he’s wrong, the player won’t play NRL.
Good read, keep up the good work!!
BA knows what he is doing!!
Cheers Joshua – and yes in BA we trust.
When Hayne went to the Titans I felt betrayed and angry and never wanted him to return. Not because he signed with them, the money factor was huge and most people would have done the same thing but his post on Instagram, kicking the club/ supporters when we were already down was a slap in the face to all Parra fans who supported and defended him for years from other supporters who bagged him. But who knows maybe Jarryd was pressured, misled, got seduced by the money or maybe he made a mistake?
I don’t know the ins and outs of how the Titans deal came about and I dare say only a few people know the entire truth but we are all human and do things we regret. Personally I think Jarryd regretted it the moment he signed- the first press conference at the Titans showed that.
So last year or even 2 months ago I would never have written this but I want Hayne to come back to Parra IF BA and all the senior players want him AND as long as we don’t loose anyone, especially French, to get him.
Parra fans need to remember that BA and our players have gone through hell to rebuild this club and there is no way they would bring anyone back who may destroy it. We also have strong personalities who love the club/team environment and will not stand for any trouble.
The Titans are a rabble so I take no notice of what happened there. I think it would be hard to play well in that club. Jarryd is not alone, Kevin Proctar, the club captain remember, did not exactly excell at the Titans this year either but we all know he would shine again back at Melbourne. So maybe Hayne will as well back at Parra. Hayne running off Moses/ Norman with French on the outside and Gutho back on the inside is exciting for me to think about and I think a scary thought for opposition fans/ coaches.
I don’t know 100% either way and the beauty is we as fans don’t have to be sure, BA and Bernie do and if they trust Jarryd and want him at the club then I do to. Besides I cannot see the likes of Manu Ma’u, Taka, Kaysa, Brown and Scott etc letting any player come in and destroy our club.
So I do hope Hayne returns and I hope he shines in the team. If not then we move forward and upwards and unfortunately the train wreck that is Jarryd and the Titans will only get worse.
Shelley, not long after Jarryd signed, I exchanged words with Jarryd on Twitter. I wasn’t happy with his comments and I let it be known. It was silly and I backed off when it started blowing up. So I understand where you’re coming from.
Like you, I’ve viewed the time since with a cooler head from a distance.
I want his return. It just makes sense to me.
I would like to channel my inner Wayne Bennett goes out for a walk with Joseph Conrad side of me when discussing the subject of Jarryd Hayne’s impending return to the Eels. Bear with me a moment… There, I have it now: Bring him home before it’s too late and he goes all ‘Kurtz’ on us!
Can’t let him die with the music still in him!
The horror! The horror!
I’m happy for him, to come back. I agree that’s its not necessarily what he can bring to the team, but it’s what he can add to the current structure, that extra support play, that extra ball player out wide, and that little bit of unpredictability. What it will also allow is for Moses and Norman to not have to be in so many places and perhaps increase their options. But I’m also looking for him be humble, be grateful and generally be open to whatever he needs to do to fit in.
I agree Anthony. I want him to be both confident and humble.
I tend to agree with most of these comments. If Hayne comes back it is on our terms or forget it.There is no doubt he has the talent. It will come down to his attitude. It would mean he is not our only big gun and he has to fit in. I am very confident Arthur will make the right call.
It’s the fact that he’s not the only big gun which makes this a different scenario to his previous time with the club. I think he just has to be part of the team. He need not be the superstar we rely on.
In BA i trust & if he can’t get these 2 back to form no one can. I am happy to see this experiment unfold Hayne will only ever be happy playing at Parra so i say bring it on Sixties
Plenty of up-side in my opinion.
Must admit I was dubious but Sixties & co make good points about the return being on our terms. If BA feels Hayne’s return works and if it fits within the Eels available cap then it can only be hugely exciting. Hayne adds experience, hunger and a replacement point of attack that we lost with Semi’s departure.
Not sure about the comments “we may even witness the best of Jarryd Hayne should he return” – 2009 was special.
Good points DDay.
Just on 2009 – it was special. But I think the best of Hayne could be found through complementing a team, not being central to it
I was a big Hayne fan what he did in 09 can’t be forgotten he is arguably the best modern day eels player. Yes disappointing he left to pursue an odd NFL dream for a kid from Minto, Yes he broke some hearts when he decided to take big money at titans instead of coming home but the bigger picture here is if the eels are serious about winning the comp we need to add a few more players of Hayne quality yes he isn’t in the best form and possibly passed his prime but he still is a supreme athlete. BA is no ordinary coach he is the messiah lol if there is someone who can give hayne a kick up the ass to get him running around the paddock it’s him. So let’s try and bring the prodigal son home… For a bargain price ofcourse lol
Of course!
We have lost some X factor with semi off to France and Jarryd at his best would easily fill that void. At the end of the day I’m a big believer in BA and have no doubt he’ll make the right call and get Jarryd back to his best if he does end up back with us
I’m sure that it’s not just BA believing that he can add to Jarryds game, it’s Jarryd be,Irving that BA would be good for him. Interesting times.
Have loved the prodigal son comparison and thoroughly enjoyed all the comments, but have to say the best, most concise response to what can only be called the Hayne Saga is Hn. WIthout any waffle, Hn has managed to summarise what I am sure will be a best selling book one day, “The Hayne Plane”. While the book on Jarryd’s life will be full of real drama (shootings in Kings Cross, finding God, unplanned baby, not to mention his football career) the missing piece is an NRL Premiership. TIme is running out and the question of what next for Jarryd, I hope includes Parra and a Premiership. WHat an ending that would be!
It’s the making of a genuine legacy Lady Eel.