The Parramatta Eels players and staff will be wearing Black Armbands for tonight’s game in memory and tribute to three important people to the Club who have recently passed away.
Reginald ‘Reg’ Sheargold
Reginald ‘Reg’ Sheargold was Secretary-Manager of the Parramatta Eels football Club from 1972 to 1982. During his time with the Club, he played a vital role in improving the rugby league program during a golden period for our Club. A former detective, Reg was instrumental in developing new facilities for training while also ensuring that the Club continued to maintain its connection with the community by supporting local school and charity programs. One of Reg’s great legacies was his role in convincing the State and Federal governments to finance the building of Parramatta Stadium, which was opened by Queen Elizabeth on 5 March 1986. Reg was also the father-in-law of a Parramatta Eels Legend, Michael Cronin and maintained a strong connection to the Club long after stepping down from his role as secretary.
Russell ‘Russ’ Devonshire
Russell ‘Russ’ Devonshire was Eels player number 294 and made his debut for the Club in 1972. Originally from New Zealand, Russ had an extensive playing career after moving to Australia first at Parramatta, and then in representatives teams for Illawarra, Newcastle and North Queensland. After moving to WA in the late 70’s he became a leading coach at both Club and State level wining multiple premierships and leading WA at major carnivals and against international touring teams. His service to the game of rugby league was honored by becoming an inductee to the WARL Hall of Fame.
Brett Eato
Brett Eato was a former member of the Eels junior representative coaching team and a long time Eels Member along with his family. In addition to his roles at Parramatta, Brett was a well-known junior coach across western Sydney, being involved in programs at Wentworthville, Dundas, Balmain and Parramatta Touch Football. In recent years Brett was diagnosed with a Brain Tumor and his inspiration in facing this challenge was admired by all the different sporting communities in Western Sydney he had been involved in.
On behalf of the entire Parramatta Eels Club and community we pass on our sincere condolences to the families of Reg, Russ and Brett – forever they will be part of our Eels family.
