“It’s Time for Me to Let Go”: Brendan Hands Announces Departure from Parramatta Eels in Tearful Message to Fans
By Sophie Lawrence | June 7, 2025 | Parramatta, NSW
In a stunning development that has left the NRL community in shock, Brendan Hands, the hard-working and versatile hooker for the Parramatta Eels, has announced that he is stepping away from the club and the sport indefinitely. The 25-year-old made the unexpected announcement on Friday morning, delivering an emotional farewell to fans, teammates, and coaches in a statement that was equal parts heartbreaking and courageous.
“It’s time for me to let go,” Hands said during the club’s media session at CommBank Stadium. “This game has given me everything I could’ve dreamed of, but there comes a moment where you know you have to listen to what your body, and more importantly, your heart, is trying to tell you. For me, that moment is now.”
The statement immediately sent ripples through the rugby league world. Hands, known for his reliability off the bench and a growing reputation as a defensive workhorse, was considered a vital part of the Eels’ rotation moving into the 2025 season. His decision to leave—abrupt and deeply personal—has prompted an outpouring of support from fans, fellow players, and sports figures across Australia.
The Making of Brendan Hands
Brendan Hands’ rugby league story was one defined by persistence, humility, and grit. Born and raised in Sydney, he began his junior career with the Brothers Penrith before being picked up by the Penrith Panthers’ junior system. He wasn’t the flashiest or fastest, but he quickly gained a reputation for being one of the hardest-working young players in the game.
In 2021, he joined the Parramatta Eels’ feeder team and worked his way up through the New South Wales Cup, showing consistency and leadership far beyond his years. He made his NRL debut for the Eels in 2023 and played 19 games in his first full season, gradually becoming a fan favorite for his toughness and team-first attitude.
“Brendan was the kind of player every coach dreams of,” said Eels head coach Brad Arthur. “He never complained, never looked for attention—just did the job week in, week out. Losing him is more than just losing a player. It’s losing a part of our spirit.”
The Toll Behind the Scenes
While fans saw the determined athlete, few knew the struggles Brendan faced behind the scenes. In his statement, Hands candidly revealed the emotional and mental toll that had accumulated over the years.
“I’ve battled with anxiety and self-doubt more than people could ever imagine,” he said. “From the outside, it may look like everything is fine, but for a long time, I’ve felt a weight pressing down on me—a sense of emotional exhaustion that’s hard to put into words.”
He went on to describe how the pressure of professional sport, the constant fear of injury, and the intense scrutiny took a toll on his mental health. In recent months, he began to feel more disconnected from the game and increasingly uncertain about his future in rugby league.
“I started waking up dreading training, something I used to love. I knew that wasn’t right,” Hands admitted. “I’ve always given 100% to my team, but when your heart’s not in it anymore, it’s not fair to them or to yourself.”
Support from the Eels and Rugby League Community
Shortly after Hands’ announcement, the Parramatta Eels released a heartfelt statement:
“Brendan Hands has been a valued member of the Parramatta family. His courage on the field was matched only by his integrity off it. We stand behind him in this decision and wish him all the strength and peace in the world as he takes this important next step.”
Messages of love and support also flooded social media, with fans praising Hands for his honesty and vulnerability.
Club captain Clint Gutherson tweeted:
“Much respect to my brother Brendan Hands. Footy will always be here, but your wellbeing comes first. Proud of you.”
Former NRL great Cooper Cronk said on Fox League:
“Brendan’s decision shines a light on something we don’t talk enough about in sport—mental health and emotional wear. It’s a brave thing to walk away when you’re expected to keep grinding.”
Leaving the Door Open
While Hands confirmed that he would be stepping away from the sport indefinitely, he didn’t rule out a return in the future.
“Right now, I need space and time. I don’t know what the future holds, and I’m okay with that,” he said. “I love this game, but I need to figure out who I am away from it.”
In the meantime, Hands plans to return to Sydney’s western suburbs and spend time with family and close friends. He also hinted at exploring studies in mental health advocacy and community youth work, noting that he hopes to use his experience to support others facing similar internal battles.
“If my story helps just one young person feel less alone or more understood, then this decision will be worth it,” he said.
Fan Reaction: Gratitude and Sadness
Fans gathered outside the stadium and across social media to share their thoughts and well-wishes. Many carried banners with messages like “Thank You, Brendan” and “You’ll Always Be an Eel.”
One lifelong fan, Sarah Coleman, who attended the press conference, said:
“He’s the kind of player that reminds you why you love rugby league—not just because of the game, but because of the people. This isn’t goodbye. It’s see you later.”
Several NRL clubs posted messages of solidarity on their official pages, highlighting that the community—though fiercely competitive—is ultimately a family.
A Legacy Beyond the Field
In just a few seasons, Brendan Hands carved out a place not only in the Eels’ locker room but in the hearts of the club’s loyal supporters. He may not leave with a Dally M or a Grand Final ring, but his legacy may end up being even more impactful.
By choosing to speak openly about his emotional and mental struggles, he’s helped remove the stigma for countless other players and fans facing the same. In a sport that often demands toughness above all else, Hands reminded everyone that strength also looks like vulnerability.
Final Words
As the press conference came to a close, Hands offered one final message:
“I’ll miss running out in front of the fans, the noise, the tackles, the grind—but more than that, I’ll miss the people. The friendships, the laughs, the simple moments.”
“But I know this: I’ve given it everything I had. And now, it’s time to rest, to heal, and to rediscover what brings me joy.”
With that, Brendan Hands walked off the stage to a standing ovation, his future uncertain but his bravery undeniable.
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