Kelly's homecoming highlights Eels NRL training camp at Lennox Head

NEW Eels recruit Brian Kelly returned home with the Parramatta NRL squad for a week-long training camp at Lake Ainsworth Sport and Recreation Centre in Lennox Head.

It is the second straight year the Eels have used the Lennox Head facility as part of their pre-season preparations.

The camp proved popular with the local community, who were given the chance to meet star players including Josh Addo-Carr, Mitchell Moses and Junior Paulo, along with new recruit Jack de Belin.

There is a Northern Rivers flavour within the Eels squad this season, with Kelly joining assistant coach Scott Wisemantel at the club.

The 29-year-old grew up playing at Ballina, while Wisemantel has been based at Lennox Head for 15 years while taking on international coaching roles in rugby union.

He returned to rugby league last year following part-time stints with the Melbourne Storm and Cronulla Sharks.

Parramatta Eels forward J’maine Hopgood poses with a fan after the team’s training session at Lennox Head.

Kelly joins Parramatta after spending six seasons with the Gold Coast Titans, where he played 143 NRL games.

Having signed with the Eels earlier this month, the outside back is hopeful of earning a spot in the starting lineup when the season kicks off in March.

“The boys are looking really sharp out there and coming here with them has been a great bonding experience,” Kelly said.

“It’s refreshing to be able to join another club at this stage of my career and I’ve been learning a lot of new things.

“It’s just about getting some reps in before the season starts, and the other guys in the backline have been great at keeping me up to speed.”

The Eels held multiple field sessions throughout the week that were open to the public, handing out free club merchandise to spectators at the conclusion of each session.

Veteran forward Jack De Belin was impressive during the Eels preseason training camp. Photo: MITCHELL CRAIG

Players and staff also took the opportunity to visit other parts of the Northern Rivers during their stay.

Wisemantel was heavily involved in on-field drills and is expected to be a key asset for new Eels coach Jason Ryles this season.

“I knew of Scott, but I’d never really had the chance to work with him until now,” Kelly said.

“He’s an absolute legend. He puts his own spin on things, and the players really love him.”

NRL visits to the region will continue next month, with the Gold Coast Titans set to host an open training session at Crozier Field on Saturday, February 7.