It’s been too long since the Eels’ faithful took their seats in PARRAdise.
265 days to be exact.
That’s 6360 hours since the roar of Eels’ fans rang out from the stands of CommBank Stadium.
For Junior Paulo’s family, Sunday’s triple-header can’t come soon enough.
Paulo’s partner Mele and their children Mario, Rosalina and Harmony will be front and centre for the match.
A family’s fond pastime; finally revived.
“What is there to not be excited about? Heading back to our home ground to watch our boys run amuck (laughs),” Mele said.
“I miss the whole game day feeling. The atmosphere is crazy, it's such a vibe and seeing the Stadium in the Eels’ colours is unreal!
“The Stadium is always pumping, the fans really boost the boys’ confidence running out of the tunnel; oh man it's the best,” she said.
Mele has been on Junior’s NRL journey from the start after meeting in high school.
Over the years, the Paulo support crew has grown in strength.
But one thing has never changed.
Through every tough loss and sweet victory, they’ve been on the sideline cheering their hero on.
“Apart from running after my little one and toilet/food trips, it's bloody awesome. It’s a bonus watching it alongside the other ladies too,” Mele said.
“I know Junez be asking me if I watched his tackle or his step, so I've really got to make sure I watch the game, so I have answers post-game (laughs).”
It’s fair to say Round One on Sunday can’t come fast enough for Mele and the thousands of fans busting to take their seats in PARRAdise.
“The cardboard cut-outs in the grandstand and background sounds didn’t make the cut (laughs),” Mele said.
“It’s so surreal when the Stadium is on! When I say on, I mean on on! Lessgooooooo!
“2022 Premiership winners. Watch this space…”
