To Nathan Cayless, the Parramatta Eels are like his family. He played there, he has coached there but now the time has come to embark on a new chapter with Hull KR.
With Willie Peters to depart Hull KR at season’s end to take over the PNG Chiefs head coaching role, the club have announced Cayless as their new coach from 2027 on a three-year deal.
One of the most respected figures for the Eels organisation as a player, coach, businessman and much more, club CEO Jim Sarantinos was quick to thank Cayless for his tenure and commitment to the club over the years.
“Nathan has been an outstanding servant of the Parramatta Eels and we are incredibly proud to see him earn this head coaching opportunity,” Sarantinos said.
“His work with our program has been invaluable, particularly in developing young players and preparing them for NRL football.
“While we will miss his experience and leadership, this is a fantastic opportunity for Nathan and his family, and everyone at the Club wishes him every success at Hull KR.”
Not surprisingly, Cayless is grateful to the club for everything they have given him and admits that although it was hard to leave, it was the right call and one he looks forward to.
“The Parramatta Eels have been my home for most of my life, both as a player and coach, and I will always be grateful for everything the Club has given me,” Cayless said.
“The opportunity to become a head coach in the Super League is an exciting challenge and one that I feel is the right step in my coaching journey.
“I want to thank the players, staff, members and supporters for their unwavering support, and I look forward to finishing my time at Parramatta strongly before taking on this new role.”
Hull KR CEO Paul Lakin sees Cayless as a good fit because he believes the current Eels NSW Cup coach because he understands club culture.
“He understands the culture of our club, how we compete as a team, and how we represent our community,” Lakin said.
“In short Nathan just ‘gets it and us’, our ambitions, personality, and the trajectory we are on.”