SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 17: Peter Sterling looks on as Parramatta Eels honour its "Hall of Fame" Members before the round seven NRL match between the Parramatta Eels and the Wests Tigers at ANZ Stadium on April 17, 2017 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)
DEAN HAWKINS SET TO DEPART
Eels reserve half Dean Hawkins, also known as “Footy Dean” is reportedly set to depart the club for a contract in the English Super League. Hawkins came to the club in 2025 and showed he was a stable half who got the job done however with all the Jonah Pezet stuff going on this leaves Hawkins scrapping to make a cut in first grade with Joash Papalii trying to nab a spot in the starting team too. We wish Hawkins all the best in his bed journey! ….
Eels reserve half **Dean Hawkins**, affectionately known by fans as *“Footy Dean,”* is reportedly set to depart the club at the end of the season to take up a new opportunity in the **English Super League**. The move marks the end of a short but impactful stint in Parramatta colours, with Hawkins joining the Eels ahead of the 2025 NRL season and quickly earning respect as a steady, composed playmaker who could step up when called upon.
While Hawkins’ time in blue and gold may have been brief, his professionalism and attitude have been praised by teammates and coaching staff alike. Known for his calm game management and crisp kicking game, Hawkins provided valuable depth in the halves throughout the 2025 campaign, filling in admirably whenever injury or representative duty opened the door for him.
However, with the **Jonah Pezet** situation continuing to dominate headlines — and young gun **Joash Papalii** emerging as a serious contender for a first-grade spot — Hawkins found himself battling for limited opportunities in the top squad. The Eels’ long-term playmaking structure appears set, and with several younger halves pushing through the ranks, Hawkins’ path to consistent NRL football has become increasingly narrow.
A move to the Super League now offers the 26-year-old a fresh start and a chance to showcase his talents as a regular starting half. English clubs have shown growing interest in NRL playmakers in recent years, valuing the structure and professionalism Australian halves bring to their sides, and Hawkins fits that profile perfectly. His organisational skills, kicking control, and competitive nature make him well-suited to the style of football played in the UK.
While it’s always difficult for a club to lose a player of Hawkins’ character, the Eels are reportedly supportive of his decision to pursue a new chapter overseas. Fans have taken to social media to thank him for his contributions, acknowledging the effort and reliability he brought to every appearance.
As Hawkins prepares to begin this next stage of his career, the Parramatta community wishes him nothing but the best. Whether it’s in England or back home down the track, *Footy Dean* has proven he’s got the quality and resilience to make his mark wherever he goes.
