Back in November, TCT commenced an ambitious four months of Parramatta Eels pre-season training reports. During this period we reported on the skills, conditioning, combinations, structures and shapes that the team would take into the season proper. Although skills coaching…
Farewell Pirtek Stadium – 30 Memorable Players For 30 Years
Back in August, the Eels said their farewells to Parramatta/Pirtek Stadium. At the time, I was asked by the club if I would like to contribute to the official program for that final match against the Dragons. Having attended matches…
Eels Pre-Season Training: February 22 – The Wrap Up
This has been a challenging report to compile. After reflecting on today’s session, I found it difficult to decide upon the focus of the report. Should I simply report on what I saw or should I interpret what the squad…
Eels Pre-Season Training – February 21: Commencing Count Down Engines On
It’s footy season Parramatta fans. The trials are done and dusted and the preparations now turn to round 1. In just nine days the 2017 NRL season kicks off with the Sharks taking on the Broncos, and three days later…
Parramatta Eels 2017 – Depth To Be Envied
The recent publication of the respective top 25 players from each club has instigated vigorous discussion across many social media platforms. A typical chorus of protests about salary cap inequity was to be expected and undoubtedly will never disappear under…
Eels Pre-Season Training – February 15: Brown Brings It
A big field session was the order of the day at Salesyards this morning. With numerous members of the referees squad in attendance, including Patton, the scene was set for full contact opposed work. Two referees and sideline officials were…
Eels Pre-Season Training – February 14: Ready For The Riff
For NRL players, the pre-season must seem like it goes forever. Whilst I get my footy fix from watching the squad prepare for the season ahead, the players have been counting down the days to get to the real stuff.…
Eels Pre-Season Training – February 11: Alice Springs Edition
As ridiculous as it seems, the players left behind in Parramatta were probably facing hotter conditions today than those who’ve travelled to Alice Springs. With a 7am start at Saleyards, the worst of the heat was avoided, but there was…
Ma’u and Matagi – Crashing Through The Barriers
Gang life in New Zealand. The young people immersing themselves in that lifestyle walk down a path of violence, drugs, alcohol and ultimately incarceration. It’s a downward spiral that can mark their papers for life – preventing them from fulfilling…
Auckland Nines – What Did Eels Supporters Learn?
The Auckland Nines are done and dusted for another year and once again the Eels have acquitted themselves well via a semi-final appearance. The euphoria of Day 1 came crashing back to earth at the hands of a youthful and…