The Parramatta Eels can confirm that Shaun Lane has made the decision to retire from the NRL marking the end of an outstanding playing career and the beginning of a new chapter within the club.
While Lane remains contracted for the remainder of the 2025 season, he has accepted a new role within the club’s Elite Pathways and NRLW programs, focusing on mental skills and athlete wellness.
Lane’s decision reflects a natural transition into life beyond the game, where he will continue to make a positive impact on the next generation of Eels players.
Eels General Manager of Football Mark O’Neill praised Shaun’s contributions to the club, both on and off the field.
“Shaun has been a wonderful ambassador for the Parramatta Eels. He carries himself with humility, integrity, and professionalism, and he’s been an exceptional role model for younger players,” O’Neill said. “We’re proud to see him step into this important new role, where his leadership and passion for player welfare will continue to make a difference.”
Shaun joined the Eels in 2019 and quickly established himself as a vital member of the team. His on-field leadership and consistency were pivotal to the club’s success, including being a key contributor in the Eels' 2022 NRL Grand Final side.
“I’ve absolutely loved my time playing for the Eels,” Lane said. “This club means a lot to me, and I’m incredibly grateful for the experiences I’ve had and the relationships I’ve built here. I’m really thankful to the fans for their unwavering support throughout my career—it’s meant the world to me.
“I’m now looking forward to continuing my career at Parramatta in a different capacity, helping our young athletes thrive on and off the field.”
While playing NRL, Lane had already reached significant educational milestones, completing a Bachelor of Health Sciences, a Graduate Diploma in Psychology, and is currently working towards a Master’s in Positive Psychology.
The Parramatta Eels thank Shaun for his continued service to the club and look forward to supporting him in his transition from player to mentor.
Replies
Yeah, just got the email. Another spot to fill.
Well played Sir. Gave your all both on and off the field. Good luck in your next phase of life.
Glad the club is supporting him with an internal role. Good luck Shaun.
All the best, loved watching him play.
Good clubman at his peak a few years back he was one of the better backrowers in the comp good to hear he's transitioned into something outside of footy also.Good luck Shaun.
Wow.. huge for the Eels. Lane was on roughly 800K a season. Big add to the Eels available salary cap funds.
800 K your generous I'd say closer to 500.
Lane signed a huge deal with the club after his 2022 form when we made the GF. Lane went onto make the Kangaroos squad that year, he's on a pretty coin. At least 800K a year.
Another reason MON should be punted. Ridiculous money for an average FG player who had a great 10 games or so in 2022.
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