End of an Era: The Parramatta Eels to play final game as Northern Territory's NRL team in 2025
The Parramatta Eels will make a momentous return to Darwin in 2025 for their final match as the Territory's National Rugby League team. After 12 remarkable years and thousands of fans cheering from the stands, the special partnership between the Northern Territory Government and the Parramatta Eels will draw to a close.
Affectionately known as the Territory Eels, the team has not only brought elite rugby league to the Northern Territory but has fostered a unique bond with the community. Their annual matches in Darwin have boosted tourism, drawing fans from near and far who explore the region while supporting their team. The shared passion has contributed to the liveability of the NT, giving local fans the opportunity to witness top-tier rugby league on their home turf.
A highlight in the Club's Territory history was their 2021 game against the Broncos in Darwin, which attracted a sell-out crowd of more than 12,000, and huge boost to the local economy. The game was responsible for generating a total expenditure stimulus of $4.2 million, of which $3 million was new money to the Territory.
Beyond the thrill of the game, the Eels' presence has been transformative, fostering growth for clubs, players, and fans across the NT. Their community programs have inspired the next generation of Territory league stars through player and school clinics and training academies.
While they're a force to be reckoned with on the field, their off-field contributions have been just as impactful. Through player signings, open training sessions, and active community engagement the team has connected with fans in a way that transcends the game itself.
As this chapter closes, the Northern Territory Government is exploring exciting opportunities to ensure the continuation of major partnerships that bring value to the NT community. The search is underway to find a new partner who will uphold this legacy and create fresh connections for the Territory's passionate sports fans.
The Darwin NRL match is delivered by Northern Territory Major Events Company on behalf of the Northern Territory Government (NTG). The NTG thanks the Parramatta Eels for their support and dedication to bringing premiership level rugby league to the NT.
Fans are invited to support the team during their final match at TIO Stadium by purchasing tickets, which will be available for sale at the end of November. The NRL draw will be announced in the coming weeks, sign up for event alerts at: ntmajorevents.com.au/sign-up here
Quotes from Northern Territory Major Events Company Acting CEO Trevor Cox:
"The Parramatta Eels have brought Territorians more than a decade of NRL action. They've also worked with the community to build up the sport and fanbase right across the NT. I'd like to thank the Club and former and current players for making the NT their second home."
"Matches like these allow locals to see elite-level rugby league action in their own backyard, and for Darwin and its surrounds to be beamed onto TV screens around the country.
"Territorians love sport, especially live, opportunities for a new Territory NRL team with the right fit, in terms of values, is being explored beyond 2025."
Quotes from Parramatta Eels CEO Jim Sarantinos:
"On behalf of everyone at the Parramatta Eels, I want to thank the Northern Territory Government and the people of the Territory for their incredible warmth and hospitality over the past 12 years. The NT truly has been our home away from home, and we will forever appreciate the connection we've built with the local communities.
"We're proud to have brought programs to thousands of children across Darwin, Katherine, Northeast Arnhem Land, Alice Springs, and various remote areas throughout the NT helping grow the game and supporting the region's youth through community and school visits, coaching clinics, and skill development initiatives.
"It's been rewarding to see rugby league's reach expand throughout these communities, and we're grateful for every opportunity to make an impact."
Quotes from NRL NT General Manager Tony Crowe:
"The Parramatta Eels have made a significant impact on our rugby league community through a consistent delivery of game development initiatives, including school participation programs, coaching courses, wellbeing, mentoring clinics, and player scholarship opportunities.
It's been fantastic to see the Eels build strong connections with their fans, as well as with rugby league supporters more broadly. Having a Territory game is a great boost for the sport, benefiting both local league fans and showcasing the huge appetite for rugby league in the Northern Territory."
