“Nowhere is more fitting – It was the site of the old Granville Park Stadium where arguably the greatest rugby league team in history trained between 1882-85 after Cumberland Oval was destroyed by fire,” said Cr Joseph Rahme who requested the council hold talks to with the Eels to discuss the plan.
The stadium was destroyed by fire as thousands of fans celebrated the club’s first grand final win in 1981.
While both Parramatta teams were beaten this year in their respective grand finals, Cr Rahme said they did the community proud.
He said the teams brought a lot of joy and united the community and “we want to show our appreciation”.
He also called for discussions to include holding a game – or at least a trial – at Granville.
“And it would be very fitting given what Western Sydney has been through in the last two years with Covid and the lockdowns,“ Cr Rahme said.
“Granville, Parramatta and Merrylands are the heartland of Parramatta.”
He says it’s a great opportunity to relive the special place that Granville Park holds in the history of the Eels.
“Just imagine it … the boost for businesses and the economy,” he said.
Cr Steve Christou says he’s looking forward to being at the stadium and mingling not only with the Parramatta Eels but with the greater community.
“What better way to bring our residents and our community together from all walks of life supporting the local sporting team – it goes a long way towards community harmony, cohesion and boosting morale,” he said.
Cr Ola Hamed said some players, who had a strong connection to the area, had already told her they would like to see a game at Granville.
