Melbourne Storm backrower Eli Katoa has put pen-to-paper on a three-year contract extension, keeping him at AAMI Park until at least the end of 2027.
Hailing from Tonga, Katoa made his mark in the NRL after his debut game against the Newcastle Knights in 2020. The 23-year-old arrived at the Storm ahead of the 2023 season after three seasons with the New Zealand Warriors and has scored 11 tries in his 59 appearances.
Katoa said it has been a seamless transition to a club that feels like home.
I've got a good crew around me, the boys have been good and the coaching staff as well so yeah, life’s good
Katoa said
Hoping to return to the field in the next few weeks, Katoa has been sidelined since Round 15 after undergoing surgery on his right eye.
“I was back to training on Sunday so I'm just going through a little preseason. I haven't done anything for a couple of weeks so I’m just getting back to running and should be back in two or three weeks,” he said.
Storm General Manager Football, Frank Ponissi, said Katoa's contract extension is a product of hard work.
“We’ve been really pleased with the way Eli has transitioned into the club and made an immediate impact,” Ponissi said.
“We know what he is capable of and we’re looking forward to seeing him hopefully go to new heights with us in the future.
“For now, we are solely focused on his rehabilitation and ensuring we are taking the time required, especially with such a delicate injury.”
Katoa: "I've got a good crew around me"
