Ryley Smith Reveals How Jason Ryles’ Trust Helped Unlock His Best Footy at Parramatta
Sometimes a young player doesn’t need a miracle — just someone who genuinely believes in him.
At Parramatta, rising talent Ryley Smith found exactly that. And more.
He found a coach, a mentor, and a club culture that lifted him higher than he ever imagined.
Smith revealed that the turning point in his development came when new head coach Jason Ryles made it clear that he trusted him — not just as a squad player, but as a long-term cornerstone of the club’s future.
“When a coach tells you he believes in you, it changes everything,” Smith said.
“Ryles backed me from day one. That’s when my confidence and my game started to grow.”
Ryles didn’t just praise him privately — he showed trust through actions: more minutes, bigger responsibilities, and the freedom to express his natural attacking instincts on the field. The result? Smith is playing some of the best footy of his career.
He also credits the senior players for creating an environment where young talents like him feel supported instead of overwhelmed.
“The boys welcomed me, pushed me, and challenged me. It really feels like a family.”
With belief, structure, and opportunity now firmly behind him, Ryley Smith is emerging as one of Parramatta’s most exciting prospects — and he knows exactly who helped unlock it.
