Melbourne Storm has announced its 2025 leadership group with Harry Grant appointed Club Captain for the second successive season.
The two-time Dally M Hooker of the Year will lead a seven-player group in 2025, with Jahrome Hughes and Cameron Munster retained as vice-captains.
Back-rower Eli Katoa is promoted to the leadership group for the first time and joins the experienced Josh King, Ryan Papenhuyzen and Tui Kamikamica.
Katoa has impressed throughout his first two seasons in the purple jersey, amassing 46 appearances and 18 tries since his Storm debut in 2023.
“Consistency has been a big theme this pre-season and we’re pleased to maintain the core of our leadership group heading into 2025,” said Storm Leadership and Development Coach Todd Lowrie.
“Harry was the standout choice to captain our squad again this year, he worked incredibly hard throughout his first season in the role and has the utmost respect amongst his teammates and the coaching staff.
“With the support of Hughesy and Munster as vice-captains, and with the experience of Kingy, Paps and Tui, we have an excellent group who will maintain standards and drive the connection between our club, fans and community.”
Commenting on the inclusion of Katoa to the leadership group, Lowrie added.
“Eli is someone we’ve been really impressed with. He’s taken a big step forward over the past 12 months, not just with his rugby league, but with his leadership throughout the squad.
“He’s an exciting young leader and someone we think will add a huge amount of value to the group this season.”
The Club has also confirmed the revival of a new-look emerging leadership group for the first time since the 2019 season.
The four players selected include Trent Loiero, Xavier Coates, Tyran Wishart and Jonah Pezet.
The emerging leaders initiative is aimed at developing the next generation of players to drive Storm standards on and off the field.
Storm kick-off their NRL season with a blockbuster Round 1 clash with Parramatta Eels at AAMI Park on Sunday 9th March (4:05pm).
