SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 10: Trent Barrett assistant coach of the Eels looks on ahead of the round two NRL match between the Parramatta Eels and the Cronulla Sharks at CommBank Stadium on March 10, 2023 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)
The Parramatta Eels have confirmed that assistant coach Trent Barrett has been suspended for two months following an internal investigation. The club released a statement today, citing “conduct deemed inappropriate by club standards” as the reason for Barrett’s suspension.
While specific details of the incident leading to the suspension have not been fully disclosed, sources close to the team suggest that it may relate to a breach of the club’s internal code of conduct. The Eels have assured fans that the decision was made following a thorough investigation and that the coaching staff remains fully focused on preparing the team for the upcoming NRL season.
Parramatta Eels CEO Jim Sarantinos addressed the situation, saying, “We hold our staff and players to the highest professional standards, and while it is always difficult to take such action, we believe this decision is in the best interest of the club moving forward.”
Trent Barrett, who joined the Eels’ coaching staff earlier this year, has been praised for his contributions in assisting head coach Brad Arthur. However, his suspension comes at a critical time as the Eels prepare for the final stages of the season.
Barrett is expected to return to his role once the two-month suspension is completed, though his absence could have a short-term impact on the team’s preparations. In the interim, other members of the coaching staff will take on additional responsibilities to fill the void left by Barrett.
More details are expected to emerge in the coming weeks as the club looks to move forward from the incident.
