Reagan Campbell-Gillard, a towering force in the NRL, has opened up about his rollercoaster tenure with the Parramatta Eels, candidly describing it as one of the biggest regrets of his career. Despite several standout performances, including his memorable 50-metre solo try against the Wests Tigers in 2020, the prop revealed his struggles to find consistency and happiness during his time with the club.
In 2019, Campbell-Gillard made a high-profile switch from the Penrith Panthers to the Eels, signing a lucrative five-year deal. At the time, he admitted to mixed emotions, saying, “You want to be a one-club man, but we’re in a business that doesn’t allow for it. I was nervous, excited, but sad to move on.” However, the move didn’t pan out as he had hoped.
Reflecting on his 2020 season debut, where Parramatta triumphed over the Bulldogs 8-2, Campbell-Gillard shared how fleeting moments of success couldn’t mask his growing frustration. “That year, I hated rugby league. It was one of those years I want to forget,” he said.
Despite personal highlights, such as a two-try effort against the Warriors in 2021 and contributing to Parramatta’s first Grand Final appearance since 2009, the team failed to clinch the ultimate prize. Injuries, suspensions, and inconsistent team performances plagued his stint with the Eels.
By the end of the 2024 season, where Parramatta finished a disappointing 15th, Campbell-Gillard decided it was time to move on. He was granted an early release and signed a three-year deal with the Gold Coast Titans. In a bittersweet farewell, he was awarded the Ken Thornett Medal as the Eels’ best player of the season.
As Campbell-Gillard gears up for his next chapter with the Titans, he remains reflective about his time at Parramatta. “I don’t regret the lessons, but it’s a time in my career that left me searching for more. I’m ready for a fresh start and to reignite my passion for the game,” he concluded.
The NRL community will watch keenly to see if Campbell-Gillard can find redemption and success with his new club in 2025.