Melbourne Storm fullback Nicho Hynes will switch clubs at the end of the 2021 NRL season, confirming tonight that he will move to a Sydney club.
In outstanding form this season after being a member of Storm’s grand final team in 2020, Hynes announced the news to his teammates at their Twin Waters camp.
The 24-year-old made a memorable NRL debut for Storm in his home region, Central Coast, against the South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2019 and has now played 22 matches for Melbourne, including seven as a starter this year.
Storm General Manager – Football Frank Ponissi said Hynes was a wonderful success story. “Nicho came to us on a train and trial contract from the Sunshine Coast Falcons with nothing guaranteed after that and ended up as a NRL premiership player with plenty more great football in front of him,” he said.
“He has worked hard and has got the rewards. We would have loved to have been in a position to extend Nicho’s time with Storm, but unfortunately, with his desire for a regular starting spot and the pressures of the salary cap, that hasn’t been possible."
“Nicho is an outstanding footballer, but just as importantly is an outstanding young man who is loved and respected by everyone at Storm.
“We will continue to follow his career and wish him all the best for beyond this season.
“In the meantime, he will remain an important member of our 2021 squad as we push into the second half of the year.”
Nicho Hynes said: “I love the Melbourne Storm and deciding to leave was one of the toughest decisions I’ve had to make in my life. Storm has made me who I am not only on the field but off the field as well. All the coaches and players have not only been great supporters of my rugby league career, but also the journey I’m on in my life."
“I’m very grateful for what Frank Ponissi and Craig Bellamy have done for me, and I have to give a special mention to Aaron Bellamy and Billy Slater who have been huge in my development."
“The players here at Storm have not only become great teammates, they are great mates as well. “We’re like a group of brothers.
“With this decision now behind me, I’m fully focussed on the rest of the season with Melbourne and hopefully looking towards challenging for another premiership.
“I’d like to also thank my family who have been there every step of the way and everyone behind the scenes at Storm who help to make it the great club it is.”
