The Parramatta Eels are pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Russell as an NRL Assistant Coach, effective from the 2027 season.
Russell joins the Eels after more than a decade of coaching experience across elite rugby league pathways and high-performance programs, most recently with the Melbourne Storm and Sydney Roosters.
Widely respected for his disciplined approach and attention to detail, Russell has built a reputation as a defensively minded coach who consistently develops players and teams to perform at a high level.
Parramatta Eels Head Coach Jason Ryles said Russell's experience and proven record of success made him an outstanding addition to the Club's coaching staff.
"Mark is an experienced coach with a strong track record of success across several high-performing systems," Ryles said.
"What stood out to me is his attention to detail, particularly on the defensive side of the game, and the way he genuinely cares for the people he coaches.
"He's someone who values discipline, accountability and hard work, while also creating an environment where players feel supported and can grow. We're excited to have him join our coaching staff and contribute to what we're building at Parramatta."
Russell served as Head Coach of the Melbourne Storm's Jersey Flegg Cup side, leading the team to the 2025 premiership. Most recently he held key development roles as NSW Cup Head Coach and Senior Academy Coach, helping nurture emerging talent while contributing to successful high-performance environments.
Russell joins the Eels following the recent departure of Assistant Coach Sam Moa. The Eels thank Sam for his contribution and wish him all the best for the future.
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Have you worked out the replacement Joel or will it just be someone that has one with another club who finished further up the table......the guy from Penrith must be good, they didn't seem to have many injuries as we did.
Then again it was explained by someone that many of Parra's injuries came from illegal plays, certainly something the S&C should have made them aware of?.....a sackable defence?
I wonder if Storm, Broncos and Canberra will sack their S&C coaches this coming year, then again it may have something to do with the individuals and the way the game is now played....if you look at the referreing and the 6 agains given against sides, they just may have to train harder? right?......Parramatta has no defence here....they got a really fair go with 6 agains?????
With Sutton, there were virtually no six-agains. Mmmm
Id take the Penrith guy. He is doing something right.
This has been a done deal for a couple of weeks at least it seems as there was an announcement from the Storm on the 1st Sept that he was departing to return to Sydney after accepting a new senior coaching opportunity for the 2027 season.
Sam Moa had 2 years to prove himself. Defensively, the team hasn't improved, possibly gone backwards IMO.
Good that we're giving someone else a go.
Would prefer a experienced assistant coach.
Yes I think I would also. The Rookies club pops another cherry.
Looking at the NSW Cup stats and his defence record is the 10/14th best in the comp. I'd hate to see his record if he wasn't a defence guru ....
Maybe he had some hurdles this year that need some context ?
I'm sure the genius's on here will answer ur question.
Flanno would be good to add as well.
I agree with that.
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