HINDMARSH EXTENDS STAY WITH EELS

Parramatta has received a massive boost heading into the 2007 season with star forward Nathan Hindmarsh agreeing to remain with the Eels until the end of the 2010 season.

Hindmarsh was on contract for another two years and has now decided to extend that by another two seasons. The way Hindmarsh has handled his contract negotiations is a credit to himself and his family and should serve notice to how other players should handle themselves.

The powerful forward who has been compared to the legendary Ray Price has played in 15 Tests and 13 State of Origin matches and says it's his drive to win a Premiership that keeps him going at the Eels.

Hindmarsh said, "That's what you play for - winning premierships."Everyone wants to play for their country and state but to win a premiership, that's what every young bloke used to watch on the last day of the season. I've never won a grand final, I don't know what it feels like.

"The worst thing is we've been there and lost one (in 2001) so if I happen not to win one I'll always look back on the one we lost, saying 'you've blown the chance to do it'.

"I think the fans are looking forward to one too, we've been there in recent years but we haven't gone all the way and I think they're getting frustrated and I think a few of the senior players are getting frustrated as well because we know we can be a strong side

.Hindmarsh has left the door open in his deal to have a stint in the English Super League competition once his deal expires, which he will be 31 at that time.

The 27-year-old added, "We've left room for maybe trying to get a couple of years overseas depending on how the body's going or a couple of seasons at Parramatta.

"Players these days, they chop and change clubs and you don't see too many players sticking to the one club anymore.

"Parramatta's a great club, they're the one's that gave me the opportunity in the first place so it's nice to repay the favour.

"I started in SG Ball in the under 16s and I'd like to finish at Parra."

Congratulations to Hindmarsh on his new deal, his loyalty to Parramatta and how he has conducted himself in a very quiet and professional matter.