September 13, 2017 5:00pm
CULTURE starts at the top.
And for an insight into the culture behind Parramatta’s NRL surge, look no further than the man calling the shots — Brad Arthur.
The Parramatta coach went out of his way to personally contact NRL SuperCoach winner and mad Eels fan Sam Rohlf, aka Banyo Boy, after reading Rohlf’s inspirational story in The Daily Telegraph. (Also watch video above)
Rohlf has survived four life-threatening illnesses — bowel cancer, a heart condition, a blood clot in the lung and another in his jugular.
He was forced to coach his side from three different hospitals on his way to SuperCoach glory — and the $50,000 major prize.
SuperCoach winner Sam Rohlf and his family at home in Brisbane, and right, Parramatta Eels coach Brad Arthur.
NRL SuperCoach winner Sam Rohlf and his family — wife Caroline, Harley, 13, Maddie, 15, Drew, 11. Picture: Jamie Hanson
Sam Rohlf in hospital to remove a portacath (an implant near the heart used to administer chemotherapy drugs). 
Sam Rohlf in hospital to remove a portacath (an implant near the heart used to administer chemotherapy drugs).Upon reading the story, which has reached over 120,000 people online, Arthur put preparations for Saturday’s sudden death final against the Cowboys on hold and contacted The Daily Telegraph through the Parramatta media team to get Rohlf’s phone number.
“He saw the story and said ‘I just have to get in touch,’” said Rohlf.
“We chatted for three or four minutes. It was one of those moments that made me glad I follow the club. With a coach like that, it’s no wonder his team plays for him, runs through brick walls for him.
“Unfortunately he didn’t make me a contract offer, he said we was right for a fullback this week even with Bevan French out.”
PODCAST! SuperCoach champion Sam Rohlf reveals his secrets to success and best buys for next year.
Arthur has contacted Parramatta fans like this before, particularly supporters who have experienced recent struggles.
The calls are made off Arthur’s own bat, when possible without knowledge of others at the club, and he always avoids media fanfare.
However, excited Eels fans often post their experiences on social media.
So winning @SuperCoachNRL isn't mind blowing enough, just received a phone call from @TheParraEels Head Coach Brad Arthur. WOW WOW WOW
In his role at Radio TAB in Brisbane, Rohlf has interviewed plenty of famous sporting identities, but his call from Arthur surpassed them all.
“I’ve spoken to the who’s who of the racing industry — Darren Beadman, Damien Oliver and Gai Waterhouse.
“But to get a phone call from the head coach of the team you have followed for 35 years, it’s surreal, it’s mind blowing.”
2017 NRL SuperCoach winner Sam Rohlf and his family at home in Lawnton, Brisbane. Picture: Jamie Hanson
Sam Rohlf reflects on his 2017 NRL SuperCoach win. Picture: Jamie HansonRohlf has made a pact with his family that he won’t spend a cent of the SuperCoach winnings on himself.
He has instead promised to take his wife and kids to America to thank them for their support, having being unable to take a holiday in the last three years for health reasons.
Replies
How good is BA , I'm very confident about our future . I reckon he learnt some valuable lessons from the Watmong / Foz signings and the sky's now the limit .