The Parramatta Eels have welcomed another former player to their coaching staff as they embark on a new chapter under head coach Jason Ryles in his debut season in charge.
Ryles, who succeeds Brad Arthur and Trent Barrett, has recruited his former St George Illawarra Dragons teammate and co-captain, Mark Gasnier, to return to rugby league as an assistant coach.
As part of a revamped coaching team, Gasnier will join Nathan Brown, Sam Moa, and Scott Wisemantel, working under Ryles and specializing in coaching the club’s outside backs, including Zac Lomax, Will Penisini, Bailey Simonsson, and Sean Russell.
“I brought him to Melbourne a few seasons ago when I was an assistant, and the players were really receptive to his input,” Ryles told The Daily Telegraph.
“I always kept it in mind that if I ever got a coaching job, I’d bring him on board,” Ryles said of Mark Gasnier. “He’s been loving it and really enjoys working with the outside backs.
“He talks to them about the finer details of their craft, breaking down the intricate aspects of playing in the backs that I can’t teach. He also reviews video with them, offering valuable insights.
“We’re great mates, so there’s already a strong relationship. It’s a small role, but there’s no doubt he can have a significant influence.”
Gasnier, who was the best man at Ryles’ wedding, enjoyed a stellar playing career. He made 175 first-grade appearances for the Dragons across two stints (2000–08 and 2010–11), represented Australia in 15 Tests, and played 12 State of Origin matches for New South Wales.
A nephew of rugby league icon Reg Gasnier, Mark was a key figure in the Dragons’ 2010 premiership triumph and was twice named the Dally M Centre of the Year during his illustrious career.
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