Actually forget that question....
Eel for life
By DEAN RITCHIE
August 28, 2004
PARRAMATTA star Nathan Hindmarsh yesterday signed the richest deal in the club's history ? a $1.2 million contract that keeps him with the Eels until the end of 2008.
Hindmarsh's contract will be upgraded for next year and then extended for another three seasons.
By the end of 2008, the second-rower will have played 10 years at Parramatta and will be in line for a life membership of the club.
Eels coach Brian Smith last night described Hindmarsh as "a true legend" and this has been his finest season.
A wonderfully committed player, he has been irrepressible for Parramatta and finally conquered State of Origin football for NSW this season.
His retention is a massive boost for a club that has already signed Timana Tahu, Mark Riddell, Glenn Morrison, Paul Stringer and Chad Robinson.
"It's obviously a great relief to have re-signed," Hindmarsh said. "The club is really going places and not only with who we already have here but also who we have recruited.
"The main reason I'm staying is that I'm a Parramatta man and this is where I want to play."
Smith said the entire Eels organisation was delighted with Hindmarsh's decision.
"Everyone from the chairman to his teammates, coaching staff, office staff and the fans will be really excited at this news," Smith said.
"With this contract, he can now go on to become a true legend of this great club.
"I think rugby league fans generally love to see their favourite players stick with clubs and Nathan is certainly a favourite of this club.
"At the end of this deal, he will get life membership and that will reflect just what Nathan means to Parramatta and what Parramatta means to Nathan."
It is understood Hindmarsh will receive about $350,000 a season, making him the club's top earner.
"Everyone who has watched Parramatta over the past few years recognises Nathan's contribution has been immense," Smith said.
Hindmarsh will play in tonight's vital match against neighbours Penrith at Parramatta Stadium.
A loss would wreck any aspirations Parramatta harbour of reaching the finals series.
"It is an enormous boost having Nathan stay with us until the end of 2008," Parramatta chief executive Denis Fitzgerald.
"We are still hopeful of reaching this season's finals but we have recruited strongly and I have no doubt we will be among the top teams in 2005."
