Manly assistant coach Matt Parish has left the Sea Eagles to take a similar position with Parramatta next season, ending speculation he could become the next Wests Tigers head coach.
Parish joined the Manly coaching staff a year ago when Geoff Toovey took over from Des Hasler, following the flag-winning coach's departure from Brookvale Oval.
After Tim Sheens was removed from his position as Tigers coach this week, the former Balmain Tigers utility Parish was mentioned as a likely successor.
Instead he will serve under new Eels coach Ricky Stuart, who he previously worked with as an assistant to the New South Wales Origin team.
"It was a very tough decision because I really admire Tooves and the staff and the players," Parish said.
"I can tell you I had many sleepless nights about it.
"Manly have been really good to me and I appreciate everything they have done."
Tags: sport, rugby-league, nrl, parramatta-2150, manly-2095 First posted September 27, 2012 11:37:36