LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Eddie Paea, a former NRL halfback, has secured a new coaching position with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, moving him closer to a potential future as an NRL head coach.
After two consecutive seasons on the coaching staff within the club's pathways system, Paea will now assist Wayne Collins as part of the Rabbitohs' NSW Cup reserve-grade team alongside Jason Peterson.
This advancement follows his season as an assistant coach for the Under-17s Harold Matthews Cup squad and his involvement with the Under-19s SG Ball Cup coaching staff last year.
Paea also served as one of the head coaches for the Mascot Jets A-grade team in the South Sydney Juniors Rugby League (SSJRL) competition for 2025.
Before transitioning to coaching, he played eight matches for the Rabbitohs from 2006 to 2008 and represented the Tongan national team in seven games, including his debut at the 2008 Rugby League World Cup.
As a relative of former NRL players Lelea Paea, Lopini Paea, and Mickey Paea, Eddie spent the majority of his playing career in the NSW Cup, making 42 appearances, scoring 15 tries, and kicking 79 goals for the North Sydney Bears, the Rabbitohs' feeder team at that time.
Head Coach: Wayne Collins
Assistant Coaches: Jason Peterson, Eddie Paea
Team Manager: Dave Sheargold
Strength & Conditioning Coach: Tom Watkins
Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach: Cooper O'Donnell
Physiotherapist: Bernie Chau
Sports Scientist: Ethan Hollie