Parramatta Eels Chairman Sean McElduff has announced his decision to step down from his role, effective February 2025. This move is part of a planned board renewal process outlined in the club’s constitution. McElduff, who has been instrumental in steering the club through significant developments, emphasized the importance of structured governance and the need for fresh leadership to continue the club’s progress.
In an October 2024 message to members, McElduff detailed the upcoming changes, stating, “By the end of 2025 we will have two more retirements, including myself as chairman and fellow director Vicki Leaver, resulting in all the original External Directors having retired by year end 2025.” He further explained that the club has engaged an external search firm to identify potential new External Directors, ensuring a rigorous selection process to find individuals with the right experience and knowledge to drive the future of the Eels.
McElduff’s tenure has been marked by significant milestones, including the advancement of the Kellyville Park development, set to be completed in 2025. This state-of-the-art facility is envisioned as a world-class center of excellence for the Eels’ NRL and NRLW squads and a major community sports precinct in Western Sydney. McElduff highlighted the project’s importance, stating, “Kellyville Park will cater to the growing needs of our community and increase sports participation from grassroots all the way up to NRL and NRLW.”
Under McElduff’s leadership, the club has also focused on strengthening its connection with the Eels community. Initiatives such as community training events in Fairfield and Granville were organized to bring players, coaches, members, and fans together. He acknowledged the need for greater engagement, stating, “Whilst next year’s focus will be on improving our on-field performances, the Club is acutely aware of the need to deliver greater engagement opportunities for the Eels community and the plans for this are well underway.
The planned leadership transition reflects the club’s commitment to governance and stability. McElduff has been a proponent of structured governance, emphasizing the importance of board renewal to prevent the factionalism that troubled the club in the past. He noted, “Our current governance arrangements were supported by the NSW Government and have reestablished confidence in both the Club and PLC.”
As the club prepares for this transition, the focus remains on building a strong future for the Parramatta Eels. McElduff expressed optimism about the club’s direction, citing the upcoming opening of the Centre of Excellence in Kellyville, new coaching appointments, and initiatives to deepen community engagement as key factors that will contribute to the club’s success in the coming years.
The search for new board members is underway, with the club seeking individuals who align with the Eels’ vision and possess the skills to lead the organization into its next chapter. McElduff’s planned departure marks the end of a significant era for the club, but also the beginning of a new phase aimed at achieving sustained success both on and off the field.
