LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Rugby League world, the Melbourne Storm have granted an early release to assistant coach Jason Ryles.
The former forward, who has been a stalwart assistant at both the Sydney Roosters and the Storm, has been announced as the head coach of the Parramatta Eels starting in 2025.
This will mark Ryles' first venture into head coaching, a position that many thought he was destined for when he was linked with the St George Illawarra Dragons job last year.
However, that role ultimately went to Shane Flanagan, leaving Ryles in limbo.
Instead of biding his time under the tutelage of Craig Bellamy at the Storm, a club where he was rumored to be the heir apparent to the head coaching position, Ryles will now begin his preparations for the Eels immediately.
The Storm have confirmed that Ryles will finish up with the team at the end of the week, signaling the end of an era for the respected coach.
As Ryles embarks on this new chapter in his coaching career, the Rugby League community will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how he fares in the high-pressure role of head coach.
Time will tell if Ryles can lead the Eels to glory, but one thing's for sure - he'll be giving it his all on the sidelines, just like he did on the field.