Eels Worldwide returns for November with the story of London policeman Andy Ratcliffe, whose support for the Eels stems from a chance meeting with an Eels legend many years ago.

Born and raised in St. Helens, Andy’s first love is for the former home of new Eels head coach Daniel Anderson – the St. Helens Saints. The photo to your right shows Andy on the train en route to Wembley for the Saints 28-16 victory over Hull in the 2008 Challenge Cup Final.

However since 1973 he’s also been an Eels fan, thanks to the kindness of one of Parramatta’s all time greats, Bob “Bear” O’Reilly.

Read on below to find out more.

Click here to find out more about St. Helens, courtesy of Wikipedia.

Click Here to visit the Eels Worldwide page, where you can fill out the Eels Worldwide questionnaire!

Remember, the best, most interesting entry each month will receive something out of the Eels merchandise cupboard as a thank you!

Read on – and enter now!

PIRTEK PARRAMATTA EELS
Eels Worldwide Questionnaire

Name: Andy Ratcliffe.

Age: 46.

Occupation: Police officer.

Current Location: London, England.

What inspired you to move to/live in your current location: Work.

Length of time spent in current location: 26 years.
 
Where were you born: St. Helens.

How long have you been an Eels supporter: Since 1973.

Who/what made you an Eels supporter: Growing up in St. Helens I was, and still am, a passionate Saints supporter. As an 11 year old mad keen Rugby League fan I clearly remember the visit of the 1973 Kangaroos to St. Helens one Tuesday night. I watched, with autograph book and pen in hand, as the coach pulled up and these huge lads disembarked. I’d heard of names such as Langlands, Beetson & Raudonikis, but had no idea who was who.

I plucked up the courage to ask one of the players for his autograph. He ruffled my hair and said "Sure mate, what’s your name?” "Andy" I replied. He went on to write in my book: “To my mate Andy, best wishes, Bob O’Reilly.” I thanked him and watched him disappear through the players’ entrance. Looking him up in the program I found out he played for Parramatta. So that was it. I’ve always looked for your results and it is my remaining RL ambitions to firstly visit Parramatta and take in a few games and to see Parra take on Saints for the World Club championship. For the record Saints beat the tourists that night 11–7.

Do you get to see the Eels play and if so, how: Unfortunately I haven’t but I aim to visit Australia in the next 5 years and put that right.

How hard is it supporting the Eels from where you live: Easier now with the internet and satellite TV.

What do you like most about where you live: Motorway connections to the North. Choice of airports for foreign travel.

When is your next visit to Parramatta Stadium planned: Within the next 5 years.

Thanks Andy for sharing your memories with us here at www.parraeels.com.au. Needless to say, we also hope to play Saints in the World Club Challenge Final in the not too distant future!

If you’ve got a story like Andy’s to share, please do so by filling out the questionnaire here.

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