Victorian rugby league product, Sua Fa’alogo, has signed a new deal that will see the full back remain at Melbourne Storm for the next five years.
The 20-year-old has been elevated to the top 30 list for the 2024 season after an impressive NRL and international debut last season.
Fa’alogo said it was a dream come true to sign with Storm having developed his game through the Victorian pathways.
“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 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.”
Storm General Manager Football, Frank Ponissi, said Fa’alogo had worked hard to secure his spot on the NRL list.
“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.”
Ponissi said Fa-alogo’s story would provide inspiration for young Victorian players looking to play NRL.
"We now have the Storm pathways in place in Victoria to develop players from a young age and hopefully we can find the next Sua, Dean Ieremia or Young Tonumaipea,” Ponissi said.
“We know the talent is here in Victoria and there is so much potential for growth, which is why we have invested in our own pathways. We are excited about what the future holds for young Victorian players.”
