Experienced centre signs with the Eels

Injury has not been kind to him in 2014 but NRL centre Beau Champion is keen for a new start and a fresh opportunity and he has one, signing with the Parramatta Eels for the 2015 season.

After completing his current deal with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, the 27-year old centre will make the move West to the Eels, a move that coach Brad Arthur is pleased with.

“Beau is a great competitor and athlete, and will be a valuable addition to our side for 2015,” said Arthur.

“He will bring back line experience to our team, and maturity to our young squad.”

For Champion himself, who has previously played for the Bunnies, the Melbourne Storm and the Gold Coast Titans, he feels honoured to be a part of a club on the rise and with so many talented players.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to come to a club that I believe is on the rise, with a lot of young talent,” Champion said.

“I’m looking forward to the chance to play alongside these young players and be part of the Eels next year.”

Eels CEO Scott Seward also applauded the signing, acknowledging the depth Champion offers within the team.

“It’s a great sign for the Eels to have players of Beau’s calibre interested in joining our ranks,” Parramatta Eels CEO Scott Seward said.

“The club is building a squad with depth and balance in key positions, and I look forward to seeing what Beau will bring next season.”

The Souths club was like a home to Champion and with 80 of his first-grade games coming at the club – including his NRL debut – he is forever indebted to the club.

“I want to say a big thank you to the Members and fans of the Rabbitohs, and everyone in the South Sydney community, for the support they’ve given me over the past ten years,” Champion said.

“They have helped create some great memories for me that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

“I’m a South Sydney junior and I was very proud man every time I’ve had the opportunity to pull on the red and green jersey.

“I also want to thank the South Sydney Football Club for the opportunity to play first grade for this club originally in 2005 and when I returned in 2013.

“Unfortunately this year hasn’t been the best personally on the field for me, but I’ll be cheering the boys on for the rest of the season and through the finals.

“The Rabbitohs will always be part of me.”

Knowing that he is departing, Souths coach Michael Maguire praised Champion for his continued commitment to the club even though he is injured.

“Beau has been great for us despite not being able to play a lot of games since coming back to the Club last year,” Maguire said.

“He is a South Sydney man and one of the great clubmen amongst this squad.

“We’re pleased he’s going to get another opportunity to play in the NRL at Parramatta and we wish him the best of luck for next year.

“For now, he’s very much part of our squad and we’re looking forward to enjoying the rest of the season with him.”