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.
You need to be a member of 1Eyed Eel to add comments!
Replies
Seems like an upgrade on Moa but to be fair, a blind chimp would be an upgrade on Moa.
I think Moa did a very good job face value.....assuming he is going the Roosters to meet up again with Trent Robinson, that's not a bad wrap in a comparative sense.
Never heard of him! So I'm assuming that Nathan Brown is leaving or has left already! So what is this new bloke Mark Russell going to be doing in his role of asssitant coach! Ryles must know him both being involved with the Storm!
What's he going to be doing? Did you not read the blog?
Is says what he has 'done' ( past tense) not what he's going to be 'doing' (future tense). Yes he's the new Assistant Coach! But exactly what does that entail? I only ever saw Nathan Brown besides slap a few faces, sitting in the coaching box or standing on the oval with his hands in his pocket
pretty sure brown was mostly involved in pathways which seems to be improving
Mallee you continue to not let my prior judgement fail by keep on keeping on. Yes that word that starts with "I" keeps coming to my mind!
Now let me say you are not in the same league as some of our past idiots and maybe I was unfair to some of them and they were intellectually challenged.....that said if you can confirm same, I will laugh with you as against you. After all most of us old people have "cognitive" challenges, myself being no exception.
Can you simplify that message Poppa. I'm an old fart like you and late afternoon I'm not as quick as I used to be. I need dose of the Beverly Hillbillies to get me focused especially Ellie May Clampert
Yep, he weeded the pathways with Round Up
I think Russell slaps arses and typically has his hands in his jacket pockets not his pants. I can see what you are saying Mallee. Very interesting take.
-
4
-
5
-
6
-
7
-
8
of 9 Next