Over the years, I’ve written a number of tributes. They’ve been dedicated to former Eels players or people close to the Cumberland Throw. This time, I’m writing about my own father, Leo Keith Hawkins. Dad was the reason for me…
The 2023 Ken Thornett Medal
Outside of match days, the Ken Thornett Medal is the major event on the Parramatta Eels calendar. It recognises the efforts and major achievements of individuals from the NRL, NRLW, NSW Cup and Jersey Flegg seasons. The early date of…
Live Blog – Jersey Flegg Round 25 Eels vs Sydney Roosters
The Eels are still in the hunt for the finals in the Jersey Flegg but they need to win out in their remaining 2 games in the regular season. That starts today as they host the competition leaders in the…
The Spotlight – August 17, 2023: The Bright Light In The Eels Future
My recent series of posts on the Eels 2023 season and what the roster will look like in 2024 painted quite a gloomy picture. At this stage, the top 30 for next season looks short on both outside backs and…
Parramatta 2023 – A Diagnosis (Autopsy) Of The Season, Part 3: What Lies Ahead?
The first two posts in this series examined the current roster and the impact of injuries and suspensions. It highlighted the lack of depth and options in key positions, and discussed the resulting pressures throughout 2023 as the team attempted…
The Spotlight: Rekindling The Eels Supporter Flames
This has been a challenging week. I’m naturally a glass half full supporter and take pride in focussing on the positive in and around the Parramatta Eels, so being critical of the club that I am passionate about didn’t come…
Parramatta 2023 – A Diagnosis (Autopsy) Of The Season, Part Two: The Perfect Storm
In 2023, the Eels needed injuries and suspensions to be kept to a minimum. There’s nothing unique about that, but any club lacking depth in particular positions will be crossing their fingers and their toes. Unfortunately, fate has been a…
Parramatta 2023 – A Diagnosis (Autopsy) Of The Season, Part One: An Incomplete Roster
The Eels 2023 season is on life support. With five rounds remaining, the club is sitting in 11th place on the ladder and away matches against the table topping Panthers and Broncos await. Forget looking at the mathematics of the…
Vale Alan Overton AM OAM – The Heart Of Parramatta
He never pulled on an Eels jersey, but the name Alan Overton is and always should be synonymous with the Eels. His was a life well lived, and many thousands of people in western Sydney will be forever grateful. Alan…
TCT Special Feature – The Parra House, A Home Away From Home
Nestled in a quiet street, just a stone’s throw away from the Eels Kellyville HQ, is a beautiful home away from home for a small group of young players. Known as the “Parra House”, it’s so much more than just…