Haze Dunster Makes History as Parramatta Eels’ First Quarterback Player of the Year
In a landmark moment for the Parramatta Eels, Haze Dunster has been officially crowned the Quarterback Player of the Year, becoming the first player in the club’s 28-year history to claim the prestigious award. The announcement, made during the team’s annual awards night, marks a new chapter in the legacy of one of the NRL’s most storied clubs.
Although the term “quarterback” is more commonly associated with American football, the Eels have adopted the title in recent seasons to highlight a playmaker who not only commands the field but also demonstrates exceptional leadership, vision, and execution under pressure. For 2025, no one embodied those qualities more consistently than Dunster.
Having endured significant challenges over the past few years—including a season-ending knee injury in 2022 and a lengthy rehabilitation process—Dunster’s return to top form in 2025 has been nothing short of inspirational. His transformation from a talented winger into a central strategic force for the Eels has earned him accolades from teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
Dunster’s 2025 campaign saw him thrive in a hybrid fullback-playmaker role, effectively directing the team’s attacking sets and acting as a secondary organizer behind the halves. His decision-making under pressure, pinpoint passing, and ability to create space for his teammates consistently changed the momentum of games. More than just a statistics machine, Dunster became the calm head in chaotic moments—guiding the Eels through tight finishes and high-pressure matches with composure beyond his years.
Head Coach Brad Arthur praised Dunster during the awards ceremony, stating:
“Haze has redefined what it means to lead from the back. His resilience, football IQ, and willingness to put the team first have set a new standard. He’s earned this recognition not just for what he does with the ball, but for who he is as a teammate and a competitor.”
The award also reflects a broader shift in the Eels’ tactical approach, with a greater emphasis on dynamic backline involvement and creative ball movement. Dunster has been instrumental in this evolution, frequently linking up with halves and centers to unleash Parramatta’s attacking potential.
Off the field, Dunster’s influence has grown as well. A mentor to younger players and a respected figure in the locker room, he has become a symbol of perseverance and professionalism. His journey—from rookie to injury comeback to club leader—has resonated with fans and inspired many within the club’s community.
For Dunster, the honor is both humbling and motivating.
“I never thought I’d be standing here accepting this kind of award,” he said during his acceptance speech. “To be part of this team and to be recognised like this means everything. I just want to keep pushing, for myself and for the boys.”
As the Eels look ahead to the next season, Haze Dunster’s historic win not only celebrates an outstanding year but also sets the tone for a new era of leadership and ambition at Parramatta. A quarterback in every sense of the word, Dunster’s star continues to rise—one play at a time.
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