Storm’s family connection continues.
Melbourne Storm second-rower Joe Chan (Storm player #233) has committed his playing future to the club by extending his contract until the end of the 2028 season.
The 22-year-old St Clair Comets junior is part of the Storm’s first father-son duo, joining father Alex (Storm player #71) in donning the purple jersey.
His extension matches that recently signed by his roommate and best mate, fellow Storm forward Alec Macdonald.
After playing 26 Super League matches for the Catalan Dragons, Chan arrived at the Storm at the end of the 2022 season.
A member the 2023 Brisbane Tigers Premiership winning team in the Hostplus Cup, Chan took home the Tigers’ Rookie of the Year Award and made his Storm and NRL debut in the final round of the 2023 season against the Brisbane Broncos.
He’s now made 11 appearances for Storm, including coming off the bench to score a try against the Rabbitohs in this year’s ANZAC Round at AAMI Park.
“It’s such a great opportunity that the club has given me and being offered a new contract is a sign for me that they have faith in me and that my hard work is paying off,” Chan said.
“I wouldn’t be here today without my family’s support and sacrifices along the way and they are so happy for me getting this chance.
“My Mum, in particular, has been a big part of my journey. She has given up a lot and is the rock of the family. She gave up her dream job as a teacher’s aide at a primary school when our family moved to France.
“I love that I can build a future at such a good club with my flatmate and best mate Alec (Macdonald). Even though it’s considered work playing footy, I’m having fun and making lifelong friends.”
Storm Director of Football Frank Ponissi said: “It was a very proud moment late last season when Joe became the first father-son to play for the Melbourne Storm.
“Joe has shown tremendous potential this season playing in 10 games despite navigating a number of injuries.
“Joe has the remarkable record that in all of his matches so far (11) in NRL for the club, he is yet to taste defeat.
“Joe has an exciting future at the club and we are excited that he has committed long term at the club.”
