The Parramatta Eels are pleased to announce that Richard Penisini has been elevated from his development contract to the club's Top 30 squad, effective immediately. This exciting move marks a significant step in Penisini's Pathways journey with the Eels and underlines the club's commitment to nurturing emerging talent.
In another positive development, Ryley Smith has been offered a development contract for 2025 and 2026 seasons. Both players have demonstrated exceptional promise and are seen as key components of the club's future success.
Parramatta Eels General Manager of Football Mark O'Neill expressed his delight with the changes, stating: "Richard's promotion to the Top 30 is a reflection of his hard work and dedication. As a local junior, we've seen his potential coming through our elite pathways program and are proud to have him take this next step in his career.
"Ryley has been very impressive during the pre-season and thoroughly deserves his promotion to the development list. His leadership, character and skill from dummy half makes our overall squad stronger. We are excited to see him continue to develop with us over the next few years," added O'Neill.
Penisini showed exciting signs during an impressive 2023 season as a powerful outside back in which he played SG Ball, Jersey Flegg, and made his New South Wales Cup debut. Coming back from an injury he sustained last year, he worked hard on his rehab journey and is now fully fit and ready for the season ahead.
A former Australian Schoolboy, Smith joined the Eels in 2023 and played dummy half for Jersey Flegg and NSW Cup last year.
