Dear Family of the Parramatta Eels,
I’m thinking back on a journey that has been nothing short of transformative as I sit down to write this; it was based on faith, perseverance, hard work, and most importantly, love. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has contributed to this incredible chapter in my career. This letter is addressed to the Parramatta Eels organization, my teammates, and the devoted supporters who have stood with me throughout the years.
I entered a club full of pride, passion, and history when I initially joined the Eels. I could sense the passion, the standards, and the dedication to quality that characterize Parramatta from the very first training session. The thing that surprised me the most was how quickly I was accepted, not only as a player but also as a member of the family. That environment provided the basis for my development as an athlete and a person, that warmth gave me self-assurance, and that belief gave me a sense of purpose.
Whenever I put on the blue and gold shirt, I was overcome with pride. In addition to representing a club, I was also representing a community, generations of fans who stand tall through the lows and applaud through the highs. You have taught me the definition of true loyalty, and I will always remember that.
Thank you to my coaches and mentors for helping me grow into a more complete player, for believing in me when I doubted myself, and for pushing me above my comfort zone. In addition to teaching me skills, you also taught me qualities that will serve me well throughout my life, such as accountability, humility, and discipline.
I want to express my gratitude to my teammates for the friendship we have formed through our shared laughs, sweats, struggles, and victories. Together, we have made memories that are difficult to put into words, and you have become my brothers. I will always cherish the times we spent together, no matter where our paths take us.
And to the supporters: you are this club’s lifeblood. Your enthusiasm keeps us going, whether it’s in the crowded stands at CommBank Stadium or the innumerable supportive comments left online. Every tackle, every try, every win has made me feel your love. You have raised me over my wildest expectations.
Please know that the Parramatta Eels will always be a part of me as I go forward. You provided me with a supportive environment that allowed me to pursue excellence, dream large, and fail forward. I will always be thankful for that.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting me, believing in me, and letting me be a tiny part of something genuinely remarkable.
Always Gold and Blue,
Parramatta Eels,
Zac Lomax Center