The Parramatta Eels are proud to announce the launch of the Eels Institute, a Club-first educational initiative designed to empower the next generation of sports industry professionals.
Delivered in partnership with TAFE Queensland, the Eels Institute offers a unique Dual Diploma program that blends nationally recognised qualifications with immersive, real-world experience.
In an NRL first, Students can choose from two dynamic programs:
- Diploma of Sport and Diploma of Leadership and Management
- Diploma of Sport and Diploma of Project Management
These innovative programs will be delivered at the James Hardie Centre of Excellence and Kellyville Memorial Park Community Centre, the Eels’ brand new state-of-the-art high-performance facility located in Kellyville. Throughout the course, students will gain up to 100 hours of work experience, rotating through various departments within the Parramatta Eels. This hands-on experience will provide invaluable insights into strategic planning, team leadership, communication, and operational management all within an elite sports environment.
Introducing the Eels Institute
The move cements the Eels commitment to the wider community, and nurturing future talent off the field as well as on. Eels CEO, Jim Sarantinos, expressed the Club’s excitement over this new educational offering.
“We’re incredibly proud to launch the Eels Institute. This initiative offers passionate students a unique opportunity to advance their education in a world-class high-performance environment, while gaining hands-on experience within a professional sports organisation. At the Parramatta Eels, we’re deeply committed to uplifting our community and investing in future talent.
At the Parramatta Eels, we’re deeply committed to uplifting our community and investing in future talent.
Eels CEO, Jim Sarantinos
The Eels Institute extends that commitment beyond the playing field, creating pathways for students to grow, learn, and build meaningful careers in sport and business. We’re excited to support the next generation as they take their first steps into the industry.”
TAFE Queensland Academy of Sport Manager Don Harley said of the program:
“We’re thrilled the Club has chosen us to deliver the education for the Eels Institute. The sporting world is such an exciting place to work, and so we’re determined to increase the opportunities for more people to find their way into the industry and the Eels are now offering that chance to their broader community. Moreover, the brand-new home base of the Eels in Kellyville is among the best sporting facilities in Australia, so we can’t wait to get started.”
In a further commitment to nurturing top talent and building community, a minimum of two high-achieving students from each cohort will be offered full-time employment with the Parramatta Eels upon successful completion of the program each year.
Graduates will also have the opportunity to pursue further study through TAFE Queensland’s network of partner universities. No ATAR is required to apply, making this program accessible to passionate individuals ready to launch their careers in sport, business, and leadership.
Why Choose the Eels Institute?
- Learn from industry experts in a professional sports environment
- Study in elite facilities within the Parramatta Eels high-performance centre
- Gain nationally recognised qualifications
- Build your network in sport & business
- Be considered for one of a minimum two guaranteed jobs with the Parramatta Eels
This program is ideal for sports enthusiasts and aspiring professionals seeking a competitive edge in the sports business landscape.
Applications for the first January 2026 intake are now open. For more information, contact the Eels Institute via email to info@eelsinstitute.com.au, or attend one of the Institute’s upcoming Open Days or virtual information sessions:
- Open Day: Friday 14 November, 9:30-12pm, James Hardie Centre of Excellence and Kellyville Memorial Park Community Centre – Register now
- Virtual information session: Wednesday 10 December, 6:30pm – 7:15pm, online – Register now
The Eels Institute is delivered in partnership with TAFE Queensland. RTO Name: TAFE Queensland (RTO 0275). RTO Codes: RTO 0275 | CRICOS 03020E | IHE PRV13003. Course Codes: Diploma of Sport and Diploma of Leadership and Management (SIS30521/BSB50420) Diploma of Sport and Diploma of Project Management (SIS50321/BSB50820)
