On 17 June 2025, the Parramatta Eels officially confirmed they have released Bryce Cartwright from the remainder of his contract to allow him to pursue other opportunities—ending his NRL tenure early nine.com.au+10en.wikipedia.org+10theroar.com.au+10.
🟦 From First-Grade NRL to St Marys Saints
Cartwright, aged 30, has decided to rejoin his grassroots club: the St Marys Saints. He’ll participate in their lower-grade competitions, a full circle back to the club where he began as a junior en.wikipedia.org.
🎯 Career in Perspective
| Timeline | Clubs & Highlights |
|---|---|
| 2014–2017 | Debuted with Penrith Panthers (69 games, 16 tries) factsnippet.com+3en.wikipedia.org+3parraeels.com.au+3 |
| 2018–2020 | Featured for the Gold Coast Titans (43 games) |
| 2021–mid‑2025 | Played with Parramatta Eels (73 games, 15 tries); released today |
| Career highlights | Represented NSW City, World All‑Stars; noted for offloading, versatility |
🏆 Return to Roots
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St Marys Saints is Cartwright’s junior club and part of the Ron Massey Cup, a semi-pro NSW competition nine.com.au+4en.wikipedia.org+4en.wikipedia.org+4.
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The Saints have a rich history of nurturing talent—including Cartwright himself— and link closely to his uncle, former Panther John Cartwright, another Saint’s product factsnippet.com+3en.wikipedia.org+3zerotackle.com+3.
🧐 Why This Move Matters
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Returning Home: A sentimental return to kind of “where it all began” at St. Marys.
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Mentorship Role: As a veteran with 185+ NRL games, Cartwright brings valuable experience to the club’s youth and depth players.
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Balancing Life: After a high-profile career and personal controversies, a move to lower grades may offer stability, community connection, and a less stressful environment.
In Summary
Bryce Cartwright’s release from Parramatta concludes a stellar 11-year NRL career. His move back to St Marys Saints’ lower grades signals a poignant return to his rugby league roots—where he can guide upcoming players, stay connected to the game, and give back to his local community.
Irony isn’t lost—Cartwright is looping back to where he started, ready to share the knowledge of a NRL journeyman. It’s less a full stop and more a promising new chapter.