Eels confirm contract extension for 2025 player of the year

Mark Barnes

Eels confirm contract extension for 2025 player of the year image

The Parramatta Eels have secured a long-term future for rising star full-back Isaiah Iongi, who has signed a contract extension keeping him at the club until the end of the 2030 NRL season.

Iongi joined the Eels just 12 months ago after debuting for the Panthers in 2024 and quickly made his mark with his speed, footwork, and composure on the field.

“This past year has been surreal, I came to Parramatta for an opportunity and now it’s become home. I’ve built a great connection with Jason Ryles, the coaching staff, my teammates, and everyone at the club, and I’m grateful for the faith they’ve shown in me," Iongi said, also praising the support of Eels fans.

The 21-year-old played a pivotal role in the Eels’ 2025 campaign, finishing the season with eight tries and 12 try assists on his way to winning the Blue & Gold Army NRL Player of the Year, while the club named him Rookie of the Year.

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Parramatta Eels General Manager of Football Mark O’Neill said the club is thrilled to lock Iongi in long term, with his performances helping Parramatta immensely despite a disappointing season that saw the Eels finish 11th.

“Isaiah has developed into an important member of the team and has settled into the club and our environment very well since he arrived last year. His performances in 2025 have made him popular not only with the playing group but also amongst our members and fans," O’Neill stated.

Parramatta Eels

Iongi’s form also earned him representative honours, playing for Tonga in the Pacific Championships and showcasing his ability on the international stage.

The full-back’s development and work ethic have made him a fan favourite and a key figure in the team’s plans for the coming years.

The Eels finished the 2025 season with a renewed sense of optimism, and Iongi’s extension is seen as a cornerstone for their push to challenge for a premiership, with the club confident they will return to finals football in 2026.

With Iongi locked in until 2030, Parramatta have secured a potential future superstar and a key piece to their spine that will lead them for the rest of the decade.

Editorial Team