Former St Helens CEO Mike Rush is reportedly in talks to make a surprise move to the NRL just over six months after leaving the Super League club.
Rush departed St Helens in February, bringing an end to a 27-year association with the club, during which he’d help guide them to the very top, including their incredible run from 2019 to 2022.
The last 13 of those 27 years saw Rush serve as the club’s CEO and it’s that experience that has made him such an appealing candidate for Parramatta Eels, per reports down under.
According to The Daily Telegraph, Rush has held talks with Parramatta about the possibility of joining the club in a chief executive role following Jim Sarantinos’ decision to step down.
It’s fair to say that few in the English game would have stronger credentials than Rush to take on such a role given his experience at St Helens, who remained at the top of the game for so long during his time at the helm – even winning the World Club Challenge in 2023 on the back of their four consecutive Grand Final wins.
The report from the Telegraph confirmed that Parramatta had held ‘high level talks’ with Rush over the prospect of him taking on a high-profile position within the club.
It comes just over six months after his St Helens’ departure, at which time he announced a statement explaining that he was both ‘emotionally and physically exhausted’.
His exit statement read: “Life in professional sport is 24/7. It is relentless, demanding and all-consuming. After 27 years, I am both emotionally and physically exhausted. I have sacrificed a great deal over that period, as has my family, and I feel it is time to put them and myself first as I step away.
“Finally, to my amazing family and friends, thank you for 27 years of unwavering support. None of this would have been possible without you. You have carried me through the highs and the challenges, and I will always be grateful.”
Red card stupidity, Willie Peters’ legacy, and Super League Grand Final predictions – Click here to watch the latest episode of the Serious About Rugby League Show
