 Freeman began the 1996 ARL season as captain of his new club, the Parramatta Eels.Freeman retired from playing at the end of this season, with the Eels’ captaincy being transferred to fellow Kiwi Jarrod McCracken.On 31 December 1996, Freeman was included in the 1997 New Year Honours, being appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to rugby league.