Cameron Smith has backed the appointment of Jason Ryles at Parramatta and believes he is “ready” to become a full-time NRL head coach.
After an extensive interview process, the Eels officially announced Ryles would take over in 2025, beating out the likes of Josh Hannay and Dean Young for the role.
Ryles has served a lengthy apprenticeship at the Storm and Roosters, working with two of the game’s best coaches in Craig Bellamy and Trent Robinson, as well as spending time in the rugby union world with the Wallabies and England.
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His appointment on a four-year deal will give Parramatta some long-term clarity, with the club struggling on the field this year before and after Brad Arthur’s departure.
Speaking on SEN Radio, Smith – who played alongside Ryles at the Storm and at rep level for Australia – had nothing but praise for the incoming Eels mentor.
Jason Ryles will leave the Storm at the end of 2024. Getty
“I am very happy for Jason,” he said.
“I have spent a lot of time with him as the Melbourne forward coach and the main assistant to Craig Bellamy. He has such a passion for the game and I love his commitment towards working with younger players.
“He loves developing their skills to become consistent first graders (and) what stands out is that he is always looking at ways to improve himself.
“He has had quality time with quality organisations and quality people. He has taken those skills and made his own fist of coaching.”
Ryles will inherit a star-studded roster at the Eels, with the likes of Mitchell Moses and Dylan Brown signed long-term, while the emergence of young gun Blaize Talagi and his contract situation likely to become an immediate priority for the club.
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Smith also believes Ryles’ experience as a player, which saw him play 271 first grade matches and make eight State of Origin appearances for NSW, was a reason why the Eels went in that direction as opposed to Hannay or Young.
Jason Ryles celebrates with Andrew Johns after an Origin win in 2003. Getty
“People also forget about what he has achieved in the game as a player,” Smith said.
“He has played State of Origin and at international level. He knows what it takes to be a consistent footballer. I think that’s what gave him a head start.
“Jason is more than ready and he’s now got to take on the challenge of being the head coach over being an assistant. He’s done his apprenticeship and he’s ready to do it.
“I’m excited to see what is to come for the Eels and Ryles’ coaching in the future.”
Trent Barrett will remain as caretaker coach for the remainder of the 2024 season, with Ryles expected to finish his commitments at the Storm.