Melbourne have wrapped up one of the most exciting young players in the NRL by re-signing excitement machine Sua Fa’alogo until the end of 2028.
The Storm blooded the 20-year-old Samoan international against Brisbane in round 27 last year and he scored two blistering tries and announced himself as a rare talent.
Fa’alogo was on contract with the Storm until the end of next year but they have kept him out of the clutches of opponents by extending his stay.
After making his debut, Fa’alogo credited mentors Billy Slater and Ryan Papenhuyzen for assisting him grow as a fullback. Slater works with the Storm outside backs in a part-time role while star No.1 Papenhuyzen shares similar traits to the explosive Fa’alogo.
Fa’alogo, who came through the Storm’s Victorian pathway system, said he was relishing playing next to Papenhuyzen and other spine members Cameron Munster, Jahrome Hughes and Harry Grant.
“It is really unbelievable for me to be playing next to guys like Munster, Paps, Harry and Hughesy,” Fa’alogo said.
“I am a proud Melbourne boy and proud Samoan. My family is here and I loved playing footy with Northern Thunder growing up. To have the chance to be part of the Storm is a dream come true.
“I can’t thank Craig (Bellamy) and the club enough for what they have done for me over the last couple of seasons and hope I can repay them on the field when my time comes.”
Fa’alogo was on the Storm’s development list last year but has been elevated to the top 30.
Storm general Manager Football Frank Ponissi said Fa’alogo deserved his new deal after shining as a youngster and working hard.
“We can’t have asked for any more from Sua since he joined us on a development list contract back in 2021,” Ponissi said.
“Anyone who saw his NRL debut and then when he played for Samoa will know he has explosive pace with exceptional footwork.
“We identified Sua when he played in our Thunderbolts and SG Ball teams and has been patient playing with the Sunshine Coast Falcons last season before getting his chance to play in the NRL.
“He is a great character to have around the club and brings an enormous amount of energy to the group.”
