Much to the chagrin of some fans, the Parramatta Eels have signed Bryce Cartwright on a one-year deal.
Cartwright, who, by his own admission, has struggled recently, has a chance to start afresh at the Eels.
At the very least, the Eels have a forward who has shown what he is capable of as a player.
You only have to look at when he emerged onto the scene with Penrith several years ago, and the play in which he produced there.
That sort of form is not beyond him and with the skills he possesses, the Eels believe the best of Cartwright is yet to come.
“Bryce is a unique talent having ball skills like few other forwards in the NRL competition,” said Eels General Manager of Football Mark O’Neill.
“He will add size and skill to our forward pack and depth and quality to our overall squad.”
Eels coach Brad Arthur has proven that he has the tools to turn the careers of players around.
The likes of Manu Ma’u, Danny Wicks, and more recently Reagan Campbell-Gillard is evidence of that.
“Bryce was looking for an opportunity in Sydney and is keen to play under Brad Arthur and with our team at the Eels,” continued O’Neill.
“Like Bryce, we believe that through our coaching, quality playing roster and a balanced environment will bring the best out in him, something we are all committed to achieving in season 2021.”
Cartwright, a Penrith junior, admits that wearing the colours of arch-rivals the Eels is a tad strange but he cannot wait to get started.
“It is a bit strange as I was a Penrith junior and had that rivalry growing up but I’m really excited,” said Cartwright.
“I can’t wait to rip in and get started.”
In the end, a move back to Sydney was Cartwright’s favoured option and he views this one-year deal as a fresh start for him.
“It’s nice to be back with family and friends in such a beautiful place and in these facilities,” continued Cartwright.
“I just can’t wait to work with Brad and the team.”
As he works hard off the field to settle in with his new team, Cartwright says a spot in the top 17 and consistency are his two main goals for 2021.
“To make that top 17, that’s my main goal at the moment,” said Cartwright.
“To prove myself, be a really consistent player for this club and make the fans and all the club proud.”
