Storm signing coup: Rising star lands long-term deal after brilliant debut on development contract

After re-signing the explosive young player on a massive five-year contract, the Melbourne Storm have promised a significant pay increase for the “proud Melbourne boy,” Sua Fa’alogo.

Faalogo, who turns 21 in March, made the Storm’s top 30 list this year after garnering attention in just one NRL game the previous year—a Round 27 matchup against the Broncos.

After going through the Victorian pathway system and being on a $60,000 development list contract this year, Fa’alogo electrified Suncorp Stadium with a brace of tries, one of which came just moments after he took the field in the first half.

In the Pacific Championships at the end of the previous season, he then gave an incredible performance for Samoa against the all-star Australian lineup, solidifying his status as a rising talent and Melbourne’s must-have signing.

Fa’alogo said it was a dream come true to sign the massive deal and vowed to “repay them on the field” with pundits already urging Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy to get him in to the line-up as soon as possible as a wildcard off the bench.

“It is really unbelievable for me to be playing next to guys like (Cameron) Munster, Paps (Ryan Papenhuyzen), Harry (Grant) and Hughesy (Jahrome Hughes),” Fa’alogo said.

“I am a proud Samoan and a proud lad from Melbourne. My family is here, and I grew up loving to play football with Northern Thunder. Being able to participate in the Storm is an incredible opportunity.

“I hope I can repay Craig and the Club on the field when my time comes. I can’t thank them enough for everything they have done for me over the last couple of seasons.”

Former Storm football manager Frank Ponissi stated that Fa’alogo was an exciting long-term addition to Melbourne’s lineup and that he had come a long way since joining the team in 2021.

Since joining us on a development list contract back in 2021, Sua has provided us with more than we could have asked for, according to Ponissi.

“He has explosive pace and excellent footwork; anyone who watched his NRL debut and later when he played for Samoa will understand this.”

“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.”

The details of Fa’alogo’s contract weren’t released, but the NRL minimum wage in 2024 is $120,000, ensuring the young gun will at least double his salary.

But in all likelihood, the new deal is worth even more.