
The Parramatta Eels have taken a significant step forward in strengthening their relationship with the Club’s passionate fan base with the launch of the inaugural Supporter Group Alliance (SGA).
This initiative has been designed to facilitate direct and transparent communication between the Club's senior executives, Eels supporter groups, Members, fans, and other key stakeholders, ensuring that the voice of the supporters is heard and valued by the Club.
Purpose and Vision
The SGA is comprised of a diverse group of Eels Members, who have been selected for their ability to represent a broad spectrum of supporters, bringing forward their opinions, concerns, and ideas to the Club.
The purpose of the SGA is to foster collaboration between the Club and its supporters, to ensure that supporters have a direct channel for feedback.
Parramatta Eels CEO Jim Sarantinos, said the Club is committed to community engagement, both on and off the field. “I’m excited for the new era we have entered as a Club and we saw the opportunity for change, specifically around how we engage with our community.
“A key element of that engagement is building a stronger connection with our Members and fans, which includes regular two-way communication so they feel informed about the direction of the Club and key decisions,” said Sarantinos.
SGA Structure and Responsibilities
The inaugural Supporter Group Alliance (SGA) consists of 10 Members, including two Co-Chairs. Individuals were selected through a process of consultation and invitation. The inaugural SGA Members are Jon D’souza, Mary Konstantopoulos, Craig Hawkins, Joel Johnston, Adam Martin, Melissa Muscat, Elliott Richardson, Marcus Stepanek and Troy Worner.
Term and Selection Process:
- Term: Members of the SGA will serve a minimum of two years, with the Club and SGA collaborating over the first 12 months to establish a selection criteria for future members. This will ensure that the SGA remains dynamic and effective in representing the fan base over time.
- Selection Process: The first iteration of the group was formed by invitation and consultation, ensuring a well-rounded mix of passionate Members with diverse perspectives.
Key Responsibilities of SGA Members:
- Regular Meetings: Members will attend bi-monthly meetings with the Parramatta Eels leadership team, offering critical feedback on fan-related issues.
- Advocacy: SGA members will act as advocates for the wider fanbase, bringing forward concerns, suggestions, and ideas from supporters.
- Collaboration: The SGA will collaborate with the club on initiatives to unite the fanbase, strengthen the club’s culture, and foster a sense of connection among members and fans.
- Club Initiatives: SGA members will actively participate in discussions on key club initiatives.
Building Stronger Connections
With the launch of the SGA, the Parramatta Eels are prioritising fan engagement as a central pillar of their vision for the future. Through initiatives like this, the Club aims to create a more transparent, inclusive environment where members and fans can play an active role in shaping the direction of the Club.
The SGA is just one of many initiatives that will help the Parramatta Eels build a stronger connection with their supporters, ensuring the Club remains responsive and accountable to the people who matter most—the fans.