The home of Melbourne Storm, AAMI Park, is about to get even Stormier as the next generation of Club talent prepare to pull on the purple jersey and defend their fortress this Saturday in what is set to be a historic ‘Festival of Footy’!
Ahead of the NRL side’s mammoth Round 2 clash against 2023 preliminary finalists, the New Zealand Warriors, Storm’s Harold Matthews Under 17s, SG Ball Under 19s and Jersey Flegg Under 21s will all take to the field around the precinct from 12.45pm.
The U17s and U19s squads will kick off on Gosch’s Paddock from 12.45pm and 2.30pm respectively, taking on junior representative powerhouse the Parramatta Eels, while the U21s will take on the Warriors, breaking ground on AAMI Park as the official curtain raiser for the main clash from 5pm.
Frank Ponissi, General Manager – Football, described the event as ‘enormous’ and a great test of strength for our Pathways contingent.
“We really encourage all Melbourne Storm supporters to get here a little bit earlier on Saturday afternoon, get over to Gosch’s and watch the boys play,” Ponissi shared.
“There are a number of players putting their hand up to be looked at. There's a lot of exceptional talent.”
Frank Ponissi chats Storm's Festival of Footy
The two junior sides will especially be keen for a home ground advantage with only three games remaining for both the Harold Matthews and SG Ball teams, alongside a shot at Finals.
“They've got three games to go and hopefully they can finish the season well because they've certainly made a big impression this year,” Ponissi added.
“Whether they get to the finals, that's another matter. They're certainly knocking on the door, both teams that they need a win on Saturday.
“It's all new for most of them, so we're really pleased so far.
“The most important thing for us is that we really set the foundations this year with our junior reps to understand what it's all about.”
After the conclusion of all three matches, the Pathways players will be introduced to our purple army with a lap of AAMI Park, followed by spots in the guard of honour to be inspired by our first-grade squad as they run out to take on the Warriors.
Melbourne Storm’s Festival of Footy timings
Gosch’s Paddock:
U17s v Eels: 12.45pm
U19s v Eels: 2.30pm
AAMI Park:
U21s v Warriors: 5pm
NRL v Warriors: 7.35pm
