2020 NRL Round 20 - Wests Tigers v Parramatta Eels, Bankwest Stadium, 2020-09-26. Digital image by David Hossack � NRL Photos
EELS CAPTAIN MOSES REVEALS DEVASTATING LOSS: BURIED GRANDMOTHER JUST BEFORE 2026 SEASON
Parramatta Eels captain Mitchell Moses has opened up about a significant recent family loss, revealing he laid his grandmother to rest just weeks before the start of the NRL 2026 season – a heartfelt admission that has shone a light on the personal sacrifice behind his on-field success.
In a candid interview ahead of the Eels’ season opener, Moses spoke publicly for the first time about the tragedy that has weighed heavily on him and his family. “It’s been a really tough few weeks,” the star halfback said, his voice breaking slightly. “Losing my nan right before the season kicked off hit us all hard. She was my biggest fan – never missed a game, home or away. Having to say goodbye so close to when I was meant to lead the boys out was incredibly difficult.”
The revelation comes amid social media chatter about other high-profile family losses involving the name “Moses” – including a Facebook post noting the death of Greg Biffle’s family in a late 2025 plane crash – but sources close to the Eels confirm these are unrelated to Mitchell Moses’ recent bereavement, which specifically involves his grandmother.
Despite the grief, Moses has committed to leading the Eels into the 2026 season, drawing strength from the memory of the woman who supported his career from its earliest days. “Nan would have wanted me out there, giving it my all,” he said. “That’s what I intend to do – play every game for her.”
Moses’ journey with Parramatta has been nothing short of transformative for both the player and the club. He led the Eels to their first Grand Final in over a decade in 2022, won the Dally M Halfback of the Year in 2019 after topping the league in try assists, and has starred in a string of iconic Finals victories. A dominant goal-kicker and precise playmaker, he has developed into one of the NRL’s most consistent performers, earning regular selection for NSW in State of Origin and claiming Man of the Match honours in a series-winning game in 2024.
His rise to the captaincy last season solidified his status as the heart of the Eels’ squad, with his leadership instrumental in establishing the club as a top-tier contender. Teammates and coaches have praised his resilience in the face of personal adversity, with head coach Brad Arthur describing him as “a true leader who leads by example, on and off the field.”
The Eels community has rallied around Moses and his family, with fans leaving messages of support at CommBank Stadium and across social media. As the season gets underway, all eyes will be on the captain as he channels his grief into performance – carrying his grandmother’s memory with him every time he steps onto the field.
