Adrian Purtell to coach and captain Eden Tigers in Group 16

The 36-year-old, who will also captain the club, left Albury Thunder at the end of last season after three years in charge.

Eden finished bottom of Group 16 this year and club president Leigh Hennessey was delighted to have landed a coach of Purtell's stature.

"To get somebody of his calibre, having played 100-plus NRL games, is a win for both the town and Group 16," Hennessey said.

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"I know of his football background but I didn't put two and two together and realise his Dad had played here in the mid-eighties for three years until I was told.

"I think that was a big factor in his decision-making process.

"We've got to a point where Eden's numbers are declining, based on the fact juniors weren't coming through.

"We're in a big rebuilding stage and I think Adrian will be a major piece in the puzzle to coaxing players back to the club."

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