LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Former Eels coach Brad Arthur, axed the day before his 50th birthday, has been hailed as a "class act" by the NRL world for his dignified response to the shocking news.
Arthur, who had spent 11 years at the helm of the Parramatta team, had transformed them from the bottom ranks to within touching distance of a coveted premiership.
However, following a disappointing season in 2023, where the team missed the finals after reaching the Grand Final in 2022, the pressure mounted on the veteran coach.
Injuries to key players such as halfback Mitchell Moses and captain Clint Gutherson have thrown the Eels into disarray, resulting in a dismal 14th place on the ladder after 11 rounds.
Rumors had swirled about the Eels' pursuit of legendary coach Wayne Bennett, prompting the decision to part ways with Arthur on May 1.
However, the news only broke publicly after the team's heavy defeat to Melbourne at Magic Round, forcing the Eels' management to make the tough call on Arthur's future with the club.
Despite the disappointment of being let go, Brad Arthur's gracious response in the face of adversity has earned him respect and admiration throughout the rugby league world.