The Cumberland Throw

The Spotlight – The New Breed: Monitoring Emerging Eels

Back in the late 70s and early 80s, a golden era of junior talent helped to deliver a series of premierships for the Eels. A production line of players from the Parramatta development system should have delivered similar results in the late 90s and early 2000s.

We are now reaching another significant period for the Eels. A wave of talented youngsters, assembled by Eels Junior Recruitment Manager Anthony Field, have been progressing through the junior representative grades. Some of these players have either debuted for the Eels in 2018, or are tipped for NRL time in 2019.

Many of this group have been team mates since the age of 16. The majority have been members of  the 2018 Jersey Flegg squad. Consequently there’s a bond making them Parramatta aspirational, with a drive to achieve their goals together.

It’s a development which has been 4-5 years in the making, mixing pure locals with young players recruited from far and wide (thanks Fieldsy!). This is how long it’s taken to turn Parramatta’s junior development around.

Through all those years, Brad Arthur has been at Junior Rep matches, tracking their development. The investment Arthur has made is comparable to the Brian Smith era, and it’s very close to maturing.

Along the way they’ve been part of Joey Grima’s JETS group, and have kept the ball rolling under the coaching of Scott Jones in Matts and Ball, and Dean Feeney in Flegg.

A core group of these young players began their transition to the rigours of first grade in the latter part of the 2018 season, training with Eels NRL staff early in the mornings. Oregon Kaufusi was deemed ready to play NRL after his efforts in this group, with Brown and Utoikamanu only denied by their ineligibility. Arthur had previously signalled his intentions after debuting Salmon, Mahoney, and Stone.

For Eels supporters, it’s no longer an easy task to keep up to date with younger players as they transition through the grades. Match days often only feature the NRL, with lower grade matches mostly staged at Ringrose Park, and junior representative matches played at Cabramatta.

Fortunately, TCT gets to most of these venues, and Forty has happily joined forces with me for this edition of The Spotlight.

Here’s our updated guide to the next wave of Eels junior talent.

 

Dylan Brown  (18)

Originally from New Zealand but placed into the Eels Junior Rep system by Anthony Field, Brown has impressed at every level of the Eels development pathway. He dominated the SG Ball competition whilst still sixteen, and was promoted to NYC in 2017 after turning 17. He concluded 2018 in the ISP, earning praise from Arthur and the coaching staff along the way.

At the end of 2017 the talented half was forced to make a tough decision. He’d won the number 7 Australian Schoolboys jersey for their test against the Kiwis, which unfortunately clashed with the NYC grand final. Brown ultimately decided to withdraw from the junior test

Brown is quite tall for a half, standing at around 6ft tall. He doesn’t shy away from the physicality of the game – in fact, he thrives on it. A feature of his elevation to ISP late in 2018 was his willingness to take on the line as well as his defence against big forwards.

We expect Brown to get NRL game time in 2019. Given that he’s only 18, his game isn’t fully developed and he will need experience around him in making the transition to the top grade. However, he possesses the skill set required by an NRL half back – pace, vision, defence, and a kicking and passing game. Importantly, his greatest attribute is that he never seems overawed. It will be hard to deny his progression, though we should always temper our expectations when it comes to the Eels number 7 jersey.

 

Stefano Utoikamanu (18)

The Eels faithful wanted a big forward and they’ve got exactly what they wanted in this young behemoth. Standing at around 6ft 4 and hovering just over the 110kg mark, this 18 year old is well on his way to an NRL debut in 2019.

Big Stefano in action.

Surprisingly fast and agile for a big man, the modest prop is a determined competitor as soon as he’s in the heat of battle. For reference, his match winning NSW Under 18’s try saw him shrug off a slew of Queensland defenders over the line as he battled to plant the ball. In one memorable 2018 Flegg game he ran around 80 metres off an intercept before he was dragged down by the defence.

Like a number of other young Eels, Stefano has been preparing for his first NRL pre-season via some early morning sessions with Eels NRL staff during the latter part of the 2018 season. Indeed, his form in ISP would have seen him debut in 2018 were he eligible. A strong pre-season will have him once again in the mix.

 

Ethan Parry (19)

Talented, versatile, aggressive – these three words probably give the best understanding of this young outside back.

A graduate of the 2017 Eels SG Ball team, Parry stood out as an imposing figure on the Eels left wing. His tries were equal parts power and pace as he dominated his opposition throughout the season. What was most impressive was the manner in which he overcame a serious leg injury sustained during 2016.

Parry has played wing, centre and fullback during 2018, and handled his elevation to ISP with ease. I’m not certain which position will prove to be his best, but his performance at fullback in a beaten Eels Flegg quarter final team was arguably the best we’ve seen from him. He barked non stop at his team mates in defence and threatened to break the line with most carries.

As with Utoikamanu and Brown, Parry was involved with early morning training with NRL staff during the latter part of the 2018 season. We fully expect him to be part of the full time squad in 2019.

 

Oregon Kaufusi (19)

It was a massive Season 2018 for Oregon Kaufusi. The 19 year old forward was elevated to ISP in Round 9, earned selection in the NSW Under 20 Origin team, and made his NRL debut in Round 23 – just a few days short of his 19th birthday. Strong performances for Wenty demanded his call up to the top grade and the promising Kaufusi didn’t disappoint.

Brown, Kaufusi, Schneider, Parry, Cronin & Fieldsy.

The Parramatta Eels junior has played both middle and edge roles this year, with his NRL debut coming at prop. It’s been a tough initiation into the top grade, with his two matches coming against the 2018 grand finalists. However, his 100 plus running metres against the Roosters in a badly beaten Eels team was very encouraging.

This is going to be a huge pre-season for Kaufusi as he transitions into becoming a full time footballer. It’s already been an impressive achievement to earn an NRL debut after starting the year as an 18 year old Flegg player. A full pre-season will add size and fitness to his frame, and stand him in good stead as he looks to cement a regular NRL berth.

 

Salesi Fainga’a (20)

Potentially, Salesi Fainga’a sits as one of the most talented in this group of emerging Eels. He’s already played international football, having represented Fiji at the 2017 World Cup and he’s one of the Flegg players to have tasted ISP during 2018.

However, injury has not been kind to Salesi. He’s missed significant periods of football over the past three years and this has led to battles with his fitness. Though he’s never struggled when carrying some extra weight, either at training or in matches, there’s little doubt that his opportunity to play NRL will be contingent upon his dedication to getting himself into the best possible physical condition.

There’s aspects of Fainga’a’s game that I’d liken to former Eel, Feleti Mateo. Despite his big frame, he’s played some footy in the halves as well as the back row. He’s difficult to contain and possesses an interesting kit bag of passing skills. Interestingly, his time in ISP seemed to focus on adapting him to the physical collisions rather than any exhibition of his ball skills.

 

Tui Afualo (19)

After demolishing opposition centres in the Matts and Ball competitions, Tui Afualo received his call up to the NYC in 2016 whilst still 17 years of age. His raw power packed into a stocky frame make him a difficult proposition to tackle and he’s retained his place in the 20s from that point forward.

Unfortunately the back end of 2017 was a write off for Tui due to injury, and by the time he commenced the NRL pre-season, he naturally struggled with his fitness.

Tui Afualo – a damaging ball runner.

The past season in Flegg had him returning to his best to receive the player of the year. He even showed some versatility by playing in the halves during a game, something that he did during his SG Ball days. He’s become a more complete footballer during the past twelve months.

Though still eligible for Flegg in 2019, this next pre-season will be a crucial one for him. Look for him to be playing ISP early in 2019.

 

Kyle Schneider (18)

It’s likely that many Eels supporters have never seen this young rake play, but they’ve no doubt heard of him after he made Brad Fittler’s emerging Blues squad. TCT have watched Schneider play since his Harold Matts days.

Schneider is a leader. He’s excelled in captaincy roles at club, NSW and Australian age representative levels. The reason for this is that he plays with a level head – installing confidence in his team mates. Put simply, he plays with a team first philosophy.

Combine captaincy, goal kicking and ability to kick in general play, and there’s naturally been comparisons to Cameron Smith for his role within a team. Any further comparison to Smith at this stage would be placing unfair expectations on Kyle.

Injury at the start of the 2018 SG Ball season saw the Eels concentrate on his rehabilitation during the rest of the year. He returned to training with the Flegg squad late in the season and joined the early morning sessions with NRL staff.

Expect Schneider to spend the majority of 2019 in Flegg, with exposure to ISP as the season unfolds.

 

Jesse Cronin (19)

Another graduate of the all-conquering 2017 SG Ball team, the Australian Schoolboys representative has spent 2018 plying his trade in the Flegg team.

Usually a middle forward – in the Nathan Brown or even Ray Stone smaller forward mould – Cronin has displayed his versatility by jumping in to the dummy half role in games.

Cronin plays a workaholic and aggressive brand of football, especially in defence. His junior representative resume saw him turn a number of games with the impact of his play. It will be interesting to see whether the Eels continue to develop a utility role for him.

 

Haze Dunster (19)

Freakish size and athleticism may be the domains of his fellow flanker Ethan Parry but Haze Dunser is certainly no mug plying his trade out wide. Haze is a consummate finisher that plays the game with easy athleticism. Although he has made his name as a specialist right winger in his time at Parramatta, he has filled in at fullback when required and done a serviceable job in that role.

In 2018, Dunster was given his first taste of senior rugby league as he joined a number of his fellow Flegg talents as they were called up to the Intrust Super Premiership for the Wentworthville Magpies. He performed solidly throughout his time in the ISP scoring 2 tries in 5 appearances and averaging a tick over 100m per game. It wasn’t an eye-popping performance by any means but given his age and the relative talent levels of Wenty in 2018, it was certainly a platform that can be built on heading into 2019.

Blake Ferguson has one wing on lock down for the Eels but given the heavy media speculation about the uncertainty that surrounds the futures of Bevan French, Brad Takairangi and Michael Jennings, there is a lot that we honestly don’t know about the make up of the NRL backline in 2019. A big preseason could push the likes of Dunster or Parry right into first grade calculations.

 

Valance Harris (18)

Valance was primed for a massive campaign in 2018 after starring at prop in the post-season run of the 2017 SG Ball championship team. Sadly, his season was derailed by personal tragedy as his mother lost her battle with cancer. Evaluating his performances in 2018 becomes rather difficult given the filter of personal loss that he suffered.

Looking forwards, expect Valance to become one of the cornerstones of the Jersey Flegg forward pack in 2019. A strong season in the 20s next year would set him up for a short run in the ISP towards the backend of the season.

 

David Hollis (17)

There are times when spectators can not help but make immediate comparisons between a young player and an established NRL star. For young David Hollis, we’d suggest that more than a few fans will draw parallels to David Klemmer.

Hollis – an imposing junior rep player

As you might expect given the expected Klemmer comparisons, Hollis is a towering prop forward. While the Eels struggled in the SG Ball in 2018 for a variety of reasons, Hollis enhanced his reputation with a string of strong performances throughout the season. Eventually he was called up to the Jersey Flegg where he handled the jump capably – especially given his age handicap.

Given his rare physical traits, expectations will be quite high for Hollis moving forwards. However, with Oregon Kaufusi and Stefano Utoikamanu looking set to make the jump to NRL sooner rather than later it looks like Hollis can develop on a smoother gradient in 2019, cementing his place in the Jersey Flegg before anything else.

 

Sam Hughes (17)

Hughes has been the primary partner in crime of David Hollis over the last two seasons. A standout on the edges in 2017 in the Harold Matthews, Sam made the transition to the middle this year as he took on both SG Ball and Jersey Flegg responsibilities.

Injuries bogged Hughes down to an extent this season but there is no denying his talent. Big, physical and aggressive forwards are always coveted and Sam is lacking in none of these traits.

As with Harris and Hollis above, we envisage Hughes to become one of the mainstays for the Flegg in 2019 with greater expectations in the years beyond that.

 

JP Nohra (18)

JP hits it up.

JP Nohra has proven to be of the most consistent and dominant backs throughout his district representative tenure at the Eels. Nohra is an exceptionally well-rounded fullback, excelling as a physical and powerful ball-runner but equally so displaying excellent communication skills and the uncanny ability to pop up at the right time in support.

As with many of the other young talent detailed in this post, Nohra’s development was accelerated in 2018 as he was blooded in the Jersey Flegg. We expect this young custodian to spring board from that experience and become one of the focal points in attack and leadership for the Flegg in 2019.

 

Charbel Tasipale (18)

In a list rife with props, locks, backs and playmakers, Charbel Tasipale is one of the few EDGE prospects to earn a mention. As with so many prototypical EDGE talents these days, Tasipale oozes athleticism and explosiveness but what has consistently stood out for me when watching Charbel is his knack for big game performances.

Dating back to the 2016 Harold Matthews National Champions and right up until his late season debut in the Jersey Flegg where the Eels faced a number of crunch games, Tasipale finds impressive ways to impact said big games with powerful carries and deft offloads.

Of course, the flip side to this is that Charbel needs to strive for greater consistency on a weekly basis and that will likely be one of the goals for 2019 as he spearheads a young forward pack alongside the other talents listed above.

 

 

As this guide has been limited to members of the 2018 Jersey Flegg squad, it’s by no means an exhaustive list of Eels players. There are Flegg graduates whose current status is unknown to us, including those who may yet be contracted to the Wenty ISP team.

Furthermore, the 2018 Harold Matthews (under 16) team were grand finalists and will be major contenders for the 2019 SG Ball title. That squad will be strengthened by external recruits who’ve remained at home (Queensland and country).

Trying to predict the future for young players yet to experience the demands of full time football can be hit and miss, with a strong likelihood of the miss winning out. However, this quick listing is indicative of the depth of junior talent being developed and hopefully provides Eels fans with some (though not all) names to keep an eye on.

Eels forever!

Sixties & Forty

 

 

 

 

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91 thoughts on “The Spotlight – The New Breed: Monitoring Emerging Eels

  1. colin hussey

    Great wrap up Sixties, and to me good to see Tui’s name up there, he has impressed me in the few games I saw of him, a sure powerful player at a young age.

    Unlike some elsewhere I look forward to next season, and with the news of 4 confirmed signings and then today, 4 more getting extensions, and hopefully a couple more new ones to come, I do see the year ahead to be much better.

    While it will be great seeing some of these players end up in the NRL, my big hope though is that there will be more off field signings of people in the coaching as well as the fitness and training area, especially to help the current halves and moreso the younger ones mentioned.

      1. colin hussey

        Looking forward to the reports mate, especially any regarding the young players that have come up and any new faces really.

        With the latest 4 resignings, I still sense some other news as well.

  2. Jimmy Corbo

    Nice write up, great to get a taste of the future and an insight into players of which I have only heard fleeting reports. Like Colin I am hopeful some new cattle will be announced in coming weeks, with the coaching rosters sorted players will be moving ship all over the place over the next few weeks.

  3. Hamsammich

    Very good write-up once again guys. I’m hoping that a few of these young fellas are able to play in first grade, we all know how draconian the NRL is with their rules around promoting young players to first grade.

      1. colin hussey

        Does all the clubs have to provide the NRL with a list of their NRL players end of this week or something, I read somewhere about there having to have 24players in the squad,

  4. Trouser Eel

    TCT comes through with the goods to keep us interested/motivated through the off-season.
    An interview with some of these up and comers (and their parents) would give some insight on what motivates and keeps them playing at Parra.

    1. sixties Post author

      That’s a tricky area. I’ve had the opportunity to speak with a number of the young players and a couple of parents, but the club are understandably guarded about media exposure. We’ll see what is possible.

  5. Milo

    Superb write up fellas.
    I cannot help but smile thinking of these guys coming through. I just hope one or two can transition strongly into the NRL, as its so hard to get a start let alone stay injury free etc.
    These names have been around for a few yrs and its testament to the club. Thank you.
    I guess my only wish is that we have a strong core of players around them in the NRL team to take them forward as when we had McCracken, Pay, Dymock.

    1. sixties Post author

      Every important point. The right mentoring is vital. Having watched many of these young players since Matts, it’s exciting to see them break into the senior ranks.

  6. The rev aka Snedden

    Great write up guys.

    What I just read tells me we have a bright future with all these jrs coming through. On Schneider his a DH correct ? With kp signing today for 1yr does that mean we will see more of Schneider & Mahoney in action together in 2020 ?

    On Oregon kafausi will we see more of him in the NRL side ?

    N what do U all make of the story going around that gurr is looking at Flanagan to be coach in 2020 ?

    #Eels4life#

    1. colin hussey

      Rev, I think with Schneider his age may prevent him coming up too fast owing to age, Kaysa I believe will back up Mahoney or possibly rotate with him. I would love to see Kaysa have an injury free year to show what he can do, he was doing that until the bad one he copped in 2017 and King took his opportunity.

      I would like to see Kafusi given more NRL time.

      As for Flannagan there was a bit on one of the RL media’s about the prospect of him leaving the sharks end of 19 when his contract expires, reasoning being after 10 years a new face is needed. Flanno played 3 seasons at the eels as hooker and did a fair fist of it, IIRC he may have coached a lower grade squad here, and had applied at least twice for a coaching position at the eels.

    2. Billy

      I think both rev and colin could be right. Schneider is young and playing in the middle is no easy task. Schneider is a great size DH and a solid defender. But coming back from a shoulder injury they make take there time with him. I do how ever believe the club regard him as a potential future star and i have no doubt he will be there abouts at some stage. When that will be will depend how he returns from injury.

    3. sixties Post author

      Yes to Kaufusi.
      Schneider will be realistic with his goals. He’s not just a good player, he’s an intelligent/level-headed young bloke.
      Flanno? Can coach, but also has peptides & cap stuff on resume. BA is coach for 2019, and as far as I’m concerned he has earned and deserves our support right now.

      1. colin hussey

        Agree re BA, its easy to put him down, but the players also need to take hold of their responsibilities as players and on the field for this season from hell.

        Too many want to put the full blame on him for the season, but with the loss of back up staff until mid way through the season it was always going to be a tough one, especially with several of the big names not doing their jobs along with some who wanted to play their way, control their way and play their way in their favoured positions.

        Basically, it seemed to me, that there was a lack of team play in games, no commitment to a game plan as well.

        The introduction of Kidwell and more especially Jimenez saw a change for the better, but with injuries knocking the team about and no real pressure from the ISP side, the top team and players were safe in thein thinking, at least for some. Thankfully with the blooding of some new faces into the NRL team late in the season it augers well for next year.

        With some new blood and players wanting to play for the eels, next year I see as being very different.

        I still note that Marata and Stone have yet to re sign, also Akafolou.

        1. Milo

          Agreed with all here; too much rumour around re: cap management and usual coaches.
          As fans we just want the team to be sorted, cap sorted to allow us to purchase some good players, and of course have a good blend of youth who are ready to come through with current crop of Nrl players.
          People like 99% on here and elsewhere are all entitled to theirs but never really know what these players go through physically, mentally etc. in lead up to season.
          I just want to see a dedicated Parra outfit from the club to the playing roster.

          1. sixties Post author

            Good point about what players go through Milo, especially young players. An area that’s done well at Parra is player welfare. It’s especially important as these young players transition into more demanding training at a time when their life can be full of challenges. If people knew of some of the challenges, they wouldn’t be so quick to judge.

          1. colin hussey

            Rev. I don’t think I said anything in that regard, as for Flannagan its all speculation and that’s where the big issue is with the media these days. His name was mentioned as possibly ending his time at the sharks end of 2019.

            I had commented that Flannagon had played with the club for 3 years and also had applied for the coaching position on at least two occasions that I am aware of. And that is not endorsing him or anyone to take over from BA in any way shape or form

            I am of the belief that he deserves a chance next year, especially if he is given the back up support that he needed this past year. My real hope is that he shows up all the critics and gets the eels up the ladder in a big way.

        2. rowdy roddy

          We won’t match offers from other clubs for a young who was blooded in NRL by us if he doesn’t want to bide his time again in Reggies. We are much stronger this coming season for edge forwards with Manu Mau returning from injury and with addition of Shaun Lane and the other young local juniors coming through. Good luk to Niukore where ever he goes.

      2. Rowdy Roddy

        I’ve been encouraged by the reports re Schneider for some years, I wonder if he has a heritage with the WW2 hero who rescued 100’s of Jews? Anyway he seems to play with the same calculated self sacrifice associated with the character lionised in the movie “Schindlers List” certainly a half cousin by name and inference eh? Without getting too carried away. It was unfortunate the injury he sustained last off season really put a dampener on his career progress. He also reminds me of another Parra great in Edgey!

    4. Anonymous

      G’day rev, in regard to Flanno coaching at Parra?
      We have a great coach in BA who has improved our position as a team and our integrity as a club exponentially since 2014 when he arrived!
      I don’t think Flannos record at the Sharks was any better at the 5 year mark which was certainly only the halfway mark of his 1st grade coach career.
      IMO, if we give BA the same 10 year tenure he will deliver a premiership.

  7. John Eel

    This is a great summary of the junior talent coming thru. It is important that we as close followers of the Eels are aware of the talent being nurtured. However it is equally important that the weight of expectation is not lowered onto their young shoulders. I think that this article is well balanced and lands in the right spot. Well done Sixties and Forty.

    Now having said all of that it is still hard not to get very excited about the future. I was very impressed with Oregon Kaufusi in 2018. I had seen him play a bit in the U20’s but I was more impressed with what he produced in the NRL. He showed a turn of speed I did not realise that he had. I am also excited about the prospect of Stefano Utoikamanu he is a big unit for such a young player.

    Without naming them all and they seem a talented bunch, Brown and Schneider have a lot of mystique about them. As you have already stated though it is highly unlikely that they will all end up as regular NRL players with the Eels.

    Looking forward to the Eels in 2019.

    1. Jimmy Jnr

      John Eel I have to agree about Oregon. He is a special talent and i cant wait to see what the future holds for him.
      You mention MYSTIQUE when naming Brown and Schneider.
      What do you mean.?

      1. John Eel

        For me I have not seen much of either. A bit of Brown as he was introduced to the U20’s. Schneider not seen him at all. I have read a lot about both but especially Schneider. I live on the Central Coast and he got quite a write up in the local paper. Then again they are always going to be biased toward a local.

        I just want to see them both get a bit of time in NRL to see how they go. Both are spine players making them therefore that little bit special moving forward.

        1. sixties Post author

          If I can just add something quickly Jimmy and John. I think there will always be a mystique about highly touted young players that people have heard little about. This post tries to provide a bit of a description of them as players as well as trying to pinpoint where they’re at.

      1. colin hussey

        That is the best part of it for me. If they support each other in and off the field that is a huge plus. It reminds me very much of how the eels bonded as players on and off the field back in the 70’s prior to our move from Sydney, it was a real time that both my wife and myself were able to be part of their off field get togethers, and it showed.

        1. sixties Post author

          It would have been fantastic to have had that experience Colin. What an era!
          TCT and our mates have had the opportunity to follow the progress of these players for the last 3-4 years and to speak with some of them about their goals. Above all else, they are a respectful group of young blokes, and the club and their families can feel proud of how these blokes represent themselves.

          1. colin hussey

            Mate, the invite I got to a Sunday Barbie along with my wife, was a real joy at that time and certainly sticks in my mind.

            I have mentioned my late dad who was very much involved in the group who worked post WW2 in getting the eels into the Sydney comp.

            I have semi vague memories of gatherings through the years at another such persons place not far from where the leagues club now stands, These events were held for families of those involve a few times a year. A big old canvass tent took up the back yard for the families with some players sharing in the times. I sometimes remember the fellows name, but not ATM, a couple of them however does stick to my mind, Prudames and Overton, and more than one in their family.

            People who owned the old Brookes retreads in Nth Parramatta were very strong supporters as well, along with people over the back of we lived in Northmead, named Fisher, they were part of the Brooks group IIRC.

            Much of that time was laid back, and thing was as we had no car, we walked to and back from these events, just as we did to Cumberland.

          2. sixties Post author

            Ovo is still around.
            It was a different era wasn’t it Colin. Even though rugby league still relies on volunteers, you’d see more club people in your local area.
            As a kid I’d also walk from Northmead to Cumberland. Sometimes I’d leave early, and if I was looking to save a few cents, I’d wait till half time to enter the ground because they’d open the exit gates.
            I used to enjoy going to work with my dad because a couple of players worked with him as lorry owner drivers at Marley.

          3. colin hussey

            Not wrong mate. The name Clary Overton sticks in the mind. Where we lived the eels had a house directly behind us, and a hopeful player by the name of Bland Liles lived there, a very nice Kiwi, got a bad injury and only played a short while for the club, think he returned to NZ

          4. Gazzamatta

            I remember Bland well. I think it was the year we went with the blue shorts and white socks. Bland had a magnificent side-step very similar to Changa Langlands. He was another in the long line touted as the player to replace The Mayor not dissimilar to the often references of the next Peter Sterling. A nice memory.

  8. Michael Formosa

    Great write up! That was an outstanding read, this is the happiest I’ve been with a crop of juniors coming through in a very long time which is great because it wasn’t that long ago I thought we had absolutely no stand out coming through! The back end of 2018 changed my mind. This is why I’m happy Parra hasn’t gone on a massive spending spree over the off season. I’ll love to see a lot of these guys come into FG.

    1. sixties Post author

      Cheers Michael. You can imagine how we’ve felt watching these players come through since under 16s, reading people’s opinions that there is nobody coming through – people who don’t go to junior reps or lower grades and have zero idea – and trying to say “just wait”.
      Naturally, the real test comes whenever the young player finally plays NRL, and some of these young players might not become NRL players, but it’s a brighter future than many predict.
      Of course, we need quality NRL players alongside them to both guide and support their transition into the rigours of first grade. That’s a huge part of roster management, and will be important over the next three years with this group.

      1. Michael Formosa

        Sixties do you know if our coaching staff is finalised for next season ? With training starting tomorrow I would have thought we would know all this by now. I love how the club have very few leaks these days but giving the fans no information at all is not a good thing either. We saw they just announced some signings and re-Signing that we all know happened ages ago.

  9. Pete

    Great read guys. Really looking forward to seeing Brown 6ft halfback that can tackle, kick and pass. I hope we don’t have to wait until the season has gone before giving him some game time. The 2019 top 24 and 30, will be very interesting in deed. Thanks guys keep up the good work.

  10. Shelley

    Excellent write up and very timely. There has been much debate about Parra signings and resigning etc for 2019. I for one am really happy that we are giving young players who have come through the system a real chance. Obviously they are talented and we all hope they can make the transition but simply giving them a shot creates a positive culture and encourages younger players to stay at the club as they feel they will be given a chance in the top grade if they earn it.

    If 3-4 of these young players, in addition to the 4 new recruits and upgraded players like Mahoney, Salmon and Nikurore from last are all part of the Top 30 then we will be looking at 10-12 new faces in the top 30 in comparison with the start of 2018. That is regeneration. For every older established star you buy you probably loose 2 young players because of money and also limited opportunity. Trying to mainly buy top first graders has not been overly successful for us, so I am happy they have changed path.

    1. sixties Post author

      Nailed it with your regeneration comment Shelley.
      Ensuring that we have the right players to mentor them is now paramount too. By that I mean that anyone who can be the wrong influence should not be part of the squad.

      1. shelley

        100% correct. For our senior players attitude, professionalism and character must come before any playing ability. All players that make first grade have ability, we need ones with ability and all the above qualities. We have to be single minded with this.

          1. colin hussey

            In the past several players have been nominated as ones that can really provide good leadership type skills not just on but off field as well. Sadly not all really make it in that area, but I just have a suspicion that Gowie is a player who could really be a huge bonus in the off field support and help for this club.

            Have never had the privilege of meeting him but there is just something about him that has him as someone who goes past the scale of being genuine and not there just for himself.

            Given some of his critics cannot see past their dubiousness, I sincerely hope he has one heck of a season and puts others on notice as to how to play and act as an Eels player and then step into a off field role the following season.

          2. sixties Post author

            There have never been any short cuts with Gowie. He’s only just reached the 100 NRL games because he’s never been a high profile player, he’s always been the bloke you can rely on to get a quality job done. He’s intelligent, confident, in the best physical shape of his career, and has a genuine interest in the development of young players. He has a huge future in the administrative side of rugby league in my opinion.

  11. Jetta

    Good read. But I recall you talking up a number of previous juniors coming through. Joey Tramontana and Troy Dargan come to mind. Pinning our hopes on young up and comers is fraught with peril. I hope you’re not getting too overexcited.

    1. sixties Post author

      Hi Jetta,
      Forty might wish to add something but I’ve never written anything about Tramontana – except that he was traded for Mahoney.
      Dargan and even Doolan were very promising, but that step up to full time demands can be challenging – hence the last paragraph in the post about the hit and miss nature of predictions. Dargan even began his NYC time quite promisingly, and trained well in the full time squad, but his defence started to let him down, even at NYC level.
      I’d like to think that this has provided a guide to who these players are along with a realistic appraisal of where they’re at.

      1. Jetta

        Fair enough Sixties, But if you’re just trying to be realistic, then I would never have even mentioned Cameron Smith when talking about young Schneider.

        1. sixties Post author

          I appreciate your feedback, please read this again. You’ve obviously read Smith but not the context of the reference. These are my words:
          “Combine captaincy, goal kicking and ability to kick in general play, and there’s naturally been comparisons to Cameron Smith for his role within a team. Any further comparison to Smith at this stage would be placing unfair expectations on Kyle.”
          My comparison is to the role within the team and I clearly stated that there should be no further comparison other than the role.

    2. Forty20

      I will freely own up to misreading the tea leaves on Troy Dargan, Tramontana I am a bit confused about though…the Eels cut bait with him in 2016 if I recall correctly (in a sensational player swap that nabbed us Reed Mahoney!). I don’t think his name ever featured on TCT.

      Dargan was one of the most well rounded attacking halves I have seen coming through the NSWRL systems and possessed the genuine play-making triple threat in his ability to run, kick and pass.

      He simply could not answer the call later down the road though. When the game got tough (quite literally, the tougher standard of play in reserve grade) he couldn’t handle the load.

      Assessing junior talent and development is an incredibly imprecise science, especially for we fans who only see a fraction of the product on weekends…but that is part of the romance of it all.

      I think this crop of kids has the potential to be as good a group as the Eels have seen in a long, long time but there is that tricky word ‘potential’. Just how quick our rebuild/retool is rides on that word.

  12. Anonymous

    Excellent!
    Thanks for providing these updates. Obviously a very talented assortment of elvers. My greatest wish is that we have the systems and coaching in place to support and develop these players.
    Over the years I have seen numerous kids “get lost” in the system. Players with enormous potential. I look back at The Gibson Era where young players hit first grade and didnt look back.
    Im of the opinion that there are always young players with NRL ability within the club. Its how we deal with these kids, sometimes even more than ability, that will determine their NRL futures.

    1. sixties Post author

      Thanks Anon. The Gibson era saw us blessed with great junior talent. I think that the period after that proved that you need the systems in place to both identify and to nurture the talent. You also need quality players around them as they transition. I reckon the club just thought it would happen. It didn’t!
      Then the Smith era married systems and imported juniors with quality players in the first grade team.
      Now look what happened after that great SG Ball team that became the inaugural NYC team in 2008 into 2009. Here’s the lists of NYC players who went on to play first grade either at Parra or elsewhere – https://thecumberlandthrow.com/2018/04/13/the-spotlight-misinformation-and-the-blame-game/
      With respect to the players, its not a massive list.
      Parra has literally had to start all over again. There are NRL players in this current group.

  13. Anonymous

    Schneider isn’t even tested at flegg level and is he even 18 yet? And everyone thinks he need to be playing first grade and will be the next Cameron smith 😂😂

    Flegg is miles ahead of Matt’s and sg ball in regard to talent and physical attires and he wasn’t exactly dominating sg ball..
    let’s just concentrate on Mahoney

    1. sixties Post author

      Where have we mentioned Schneider as first grade level? Who is calling for him to be in first grade? We stated that he could be expected to play Flegg this year and maybe get exposure to ISP late in the season.
      What do you mean not dominating SG Ball? He made both age Origin and Australian Schoolboys from SG Ball. He was injured this year.
      I’m not sure but you’re maybe just trying to stir the pot here.

    2. Forty20

      Reed Mahoney is very much ‘the guy’ heading into 2019 but I don’t think sixties or myself ever laid short-term NRL aspirations at his feet. Schneider is plenty talented but my biggest knock on the young man (much as I had with the uber-talented Stefano Utoikamanu before this year) is that he needs to stay on the field. That has plenty to do with luck as much as other factors.

      I guess the biggest endorsement of Schneider’s talents, independent of anyone at TCT or the Parra fandom, is that he was part of the open age Emerging Blues talent squad this year – selected as the youngest player.

    3. Anonymous

      You obviously know nothing about football mate. Schneider captained our SG Ball team a year young and was outstanding in guiding his team around the park. The same year the kid played Nsw u18s origin a year young. As for dominating SG Ball, Lets think about that for a second. He captain our SG Ball winning team to national champions a year young 2 years ago. The kid was injured round 4 i think this year.! The team at that time was sitting 2nd. Schneider dislocated his should and the team struggled with out him for the remained of the year. FACT.! Schneider is now 18yo and doesnt need any pressure put on him. But i do agree Matts and Ball are different to Flegg. But if you knew the kid i doubt you would be saying that cause he has excelled at everything that has been put in front of him.! Obviously those in the know see talent. Fittler, ect Being the youngest picked in the emerging blues 1st grade squad. Australian school boy a year young and starting hooker. Nsw orgin captain.

      Maybe your a friend or a fan or even a family member of Mahoney. Not denying Mahoney is also a talent. But while we are being honest.! And you seem to like to bag a 17yo – 18yo kid. Lets be realistic Schneider is miles and we all see it miles ahead of where Mahoney was at the same age.!
      No need to feel threatened by the kid. Parra is the winner with 2 quality young players coming through.

      1. Anonymous

        I don’t know him, just a parra fan mate who frankly doesn’t carry on about every hyped untested junior .He’s made a few rep teams so what, sterlo never made on and he is one of the best ever 🤷🏼‍♂️

        1. sixties Post author

          Wait.. What? You don’t know him but you feel the need to make specific comments and criticisms? That will do me!
          Mate, this is simply our guide to who these young blokes are, because, as many have said, they don’t get the opportunity to see them given the placement of lower grade matches.

        2. Anonymous

          We are all Parra fans mate. But you openly bag and criticised a kid still learning his trade like you knew him. I thought you said he didnt stand out in SG Ball.? Obviously cause he didnt play this year due to injury. If your going to make stupid comments at least know the facts. Your right. Not every player plays representative football. A player should not be judged whether they are selected or not as many are not and go on to be stars. But at this point in time it is only a gauge. This might be the kids pinnacle of his career and never amounts to anything. But i bet you he has done more at the age of 18 then you have ever done in your life. So let the kid develop and congratulate him on his accomplishments instead of bagging him and talking S#^%. The thing that stands out most about the him. He is one of the most respectful and respected kids iv had the pleasure of meeting.

          1. sixties Post author

            Let’s not forget that we’re discussing young players. They deserve the chance to prove themselves before people start saying they’ve got nothing. This is why clubs keep young players out of media attention.

          2. colin hussey

            Certainly, there is no wonder in why the young players are kept away from the circus outside.

            Too much pre judging and over expectations are exhibited by too many, and most should know better.

        3. Hamsammich

          Sorry Anon, I don’t follow your logic with the “He’s made a few rep teams so what, sterlo never made on and he is one of the best ever”. Does this mean you believe that we should get rid of those players who do make junior Origin teams?

          Surely being picked in such teams means that those outside of the Parra system also rate him as the best in his position for his age?

  14. Forty20

    Rip Taylor’s name firming up is an interesting one. He has had a huge chunk of success in the lower grades and if there was ever a time for a steady and well versed hand guiding our ISP squad, now is it. Expediting the development of the talent listed in this blog is of the utmost priority.

    1. Milo

      He has also i think Forty worked up here with Wyong for a while; and may have known Schneider? Not 100% but I think he was working at Wyong.

  15. Peter

    Hi gentlemen. Just wanted your thoughts on any further potential signings for 2019. Have you heard anything to give us supporters confidence for 2019?

  16. DDay

    Thanks for the many hours of research and write up about the next gen, great content. All positions are covered and you describe a wonderful array of athleticism, big bodies and skill sets. Sounds like a long term investment ready to pay a return. The injection of young, fearless enthusiasm adds another dimension to the NRL squad and the depth importantly keeps the pressure on for 1st grade positions.
    Wonder how the Roster Ruminations guesstimate that 9-15 rookies in the squad of 36 will play out?

    1. sixties Post author

      I have concerns about our squad as I expected movement before November 1. Given that spots 31-36 will have rookies, I was certain that at least 3 rookies would be in the top 30.
      It might test the patience

  17. Phil Mann

    Enjoyed the read Sixties and Forty.

    Oh how I miss the days of U23’s, Reserve Grade and then First Grade all on the same day. As has always been the case there has been some remarkable junior talent on display in the lower grades only to find that when the pressure of First grade was applied many just didn’t graduate. That’s the same for all clubs. We are also a fantastic hunting ground for other clubs to seek talent. We cant keep everyone and only hope that our talent developers and coaches can identify those with the best skills and desire to successfully transition.

    Like everybody, looking forward to seeing many of these youngsters progress to having successful careers with Parra.

    1. sixties Post author

      I can only echo the thoughts of Forty about the imprecise science of identifying talented players. But that is what makes watching junior reps and even lower grades so intriguing. Those of us that get to such matches enjoy discussing and debating who has the capacity to kick on.
      This is a very interesting group.

    2. colin hussey

      Phil agree with you on the 3 grades on game day.

      Thing was back then and, more so pre the elimination of the 3rds and its replacement with the under 23’s was that there was also a 4 team comp of junior rep teams.

      From memory they included Harold Mathews, SG Ball, Jersey Flegg and Presidents cup, not necessarily in that order owing to age, but those matches started early in the season and the comp was finished around the turn round time of mid season.

      What that usually meant was the top Pressy’s players ended up being called into the 3rds, where there was a culling out of players from there that were seen to not have a future. It was tough on them but it gave the new players the chance in the 2nd round of the season the chance to show their worth.

      Prior to the season start there were many trial matches held for players who came from the bush, and locals who got a shot at performing. I had a lot of old programs and articles from the Advertiser Newspaper, that was home delivered on Thursdays, that reported on the players and those games. I remember one year where more than 160 young players were auditioning for the teams, lets not forget also that 3rd grade was also called the has been grade and/or the recovery ward team, as players trying to preserve their playing career for the has beens, who didn’t want to admit or realise that aspect in them, and the recovery mob would try to get back from injuries into and up in the grades.

      1. parrathruandthru

        The great thing about 3rd grade was that the young guys got to run around with a few old heads. It accelerated their development. I remember a 3rd grade game at Belmore which featured Mick Cronin coming back from an injury – knee I believe. The 5/8 inside him was a young Brian Jackson who served Mick up with choice passes all day. Mick made a great comeback and I’m sure it gave the 3rd grade boys something to talk about at work for the next couple of weeks

        1. sixties Post author

          Imagine trying to put someone like Cronin into a third grade (if it existed) match at Ringrose these days. Though the old third grade is probably about ISP standard.

      2. sixties Post author

        It was a completely different time wasn’t it Col. All those trials to be graded before the season began. Now Iits rare to hear of a train and trial for grade football. You’re signed up at whatever level, with the old time trial format restricted to junior reps, and even then, they don’t get too many surprise unknowns.

        1. colin hussey

          Certainly was, and for me I used to like it especially as there were trial games that came on show prior to the main 3 games in the afternoon. Often the players would swap jumpers as they came off, mainly as a result of there only being a set number of them available.

          Some got a second run which meant they had a chance, but once the rep games finished, that was when several got runs at the expense of those already in the squad, one in one out. Many ways was more cut throat than today.

    1. sixties Post author

      They’re being brought through Camo. We can’t keep them all, and have already lost a couple not listed here, but you’re right – these players can be a big part of the club moving forward.

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