The Parramatta Eels have a rich history in the National Rugby League (NRL) that spans over seventy years, marked by both triumphs and challenges. Despite facing difficulties early on, including a thirty-year wait to reach their first grand final—ultimately losing to their archrivals, the Manly Sea Eagles—the Eels found their stride in the mid-1980s. During this period, they made an impressive run to five grand finals and secured four premierships from 1981 to 1986.
Unfortunately, the Eels encountered a lengthy 15-year gap before reaching another grand final, where they were defeated by the Newcastle Knights. The decade concluded with another loss, this time to the Melbourne Storm in 2009. Despite these setbacks in terms of championship wins, the club has been a breeding ground for some of the finest talent in rugby league history. Here’s a look at the top ten players who have donned the blue and gold of Parramatta.
10. Bob ‘The Bear’ O’Reilly
9. Nathan Cayless
8. Steve Ella
7. Eric Grothe Snr
6. Nathan Hindmarsh
5. Mick Cronin
4. Brett Kenny
3. Ray Price
2. Jarryd Hayne
1. Peter Sterling
What are your thoughts on this list? Who stands out as your favorite Eels player?
