Ricky Stuart appointed Pirtek Parramatta Eels coach

The Pirtek Parramatta Eels have today appointed Ricky Stuart as coach for the 2013 to 2015 seasons.

The confirmation of Stuart’s role is a massive boost for the Eels as the Club looks to rebuild and ensure the strong playing roster fulfills its potential.

Stuart joins the club for three years with a charter to build a culture that breeds a strong team bond and turns around on field performances.

After leading the Sydney Roosters to three consecutive grand finals, including the club's first premiership in 27 years in 2002, Stuart coached the Cronulla Sharks before joining NSW as head coach, rebuilding a strong and competitive team and culture.

Parramatta Eels CEO Bob Bentley announced the appointment of Stuart at a press conference today at Parramatta Stadium.

“We are delighted to be able to announce Ricky Stuart as our head coach from next season,” said Bentley.

“Ricky has a proven track record as a coach after a successful career as a player and will be a great fit for the Club.”

Eels Chairman Roy Spagnolo is sure Stuart’s impact will be immediate.

“We are confident he will be a success at the Eels and will ensure our club returns to its position as a premiership force,” said Spagnolo.

“We look forward to seeing him in the blue and gold.”

Stuart said he welcomed the challenge to rebuild the club’s once awesome standing in the NRL premiership.

“The opportunity to have an involvement with a club that historically has had a powerful and proud presence in our game greatly appealed to me,” he said.

“Importantly, my appointment also provides ongoing stability for my family, especially as we moved into a new home in Sydney in the past year”.

“It is my goal to deliver to the club, our sponsors and our fans a high level of competiveness and success on the football field. It will be a process that will naturally take time, but let’s not forget that success only comes from hard work and commitment from all those who are involved in the rebuild,” he said.

Stuart tenure will start in November while interim Head Coach Brad Arthur will continue in his role for the remainder of 2012.