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
I thought $666k.
How come we aren't signing anyone with all the money we have? Frontloading contracts?
That ...and Da Siva plus upgrading of juniors and others.
Probably had to pay De Belin overs as well.
From reports, to including Anasta and Kent, they said we got De Belin on a good deal.
Parramatta version - Good deal =. 4 years and player options + a gig post football.
De belin is on 300k
If true that's another fantastic acquisition by our club.
Debelin was on the minimum at the dragons and wasn't offered another contract. He'd be one a very low contract at Parramatta. Maybe just over the minimum. No way he'll be on 300k
Because the club is clearly waiting for Nov 1
Yep, im happy that he's still at the club helping pathways. Lane always had respect for the club and his teammates. Good clubman.