Hull FC legend given new role at NRL club with ground-breaking facility planned

Hull FC legend Peter Sterling will become an ambassador of the Parramatta Eels Foundation with the club planning a new centre of excellence that will be the largest rugby league facility in Australia.

The venue will be used for the development of NRL, NRL W, academy and pathways players, with the Foundation also using it to support community engagement. It has an expected completion date of March.

Former Australia star Sterling was a four-time Premiership winner with Parramatta as a player - and played for Hull FC in the early and mid-80s, creating a reputation as arguably the best half-back ever to wear the Black and Whites' jersey. He made his Test debut for Australia at Hull's Boothferry Park in an Ashes Test against Great Britain - and another highlight followed at that ground when he was man of the match in a win over Hull KR in the Yorkshire Cup Final.

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On his new role being announced in Australia, Sterling said: "It's a new era for the Els, an opportunity for fans, members and partners to contribute to the long-term future and legacy of the club to ensure we remain one of the strongest sporting organisations in the country for years to come both on and off the field.

"Our aim is to create a meaningful and lost-lasing impact on our community through programmes that focus on mental health, respect, celebrating culture and active kids, like we have done for generations."

Parramatta Eels CEO Jim Sarantinos said: "Peter’s passion for the club and rugby league makes him the perfect Ambassador for the Foundation as we work towards creating a strong, sustainable future for the Eels."

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