Signing coup: Up-and-coming talent secures long-term agreement following outstanding debut on development contract.
Melbourne Storm have guaranteed a major pay boost for “proud Melbourne boy” Sua Fa’alogo after re-signing the electric young gun on a monster five-year-deal.
Faalogo, who turns 21 in March, was elevated to the Storm’s top 30 list this season after a single NRL game last season, against the Broncos in Round 27, turned heads.
Having come through the Victorian pathway system, and on development list contract worth just $60,000 this year, Fa’alogo lit up Suncorp Stadium with an electric double haul of tries, including one just moments after coming onto the field in the first half.
He then put in a stunning performance for Samoa against the star-studded Australian line-up in the Pacific Championships at the end of last season to cement himself as a rising star, and a must-have signature for Melbourne.
After pledging to “repay them on the field,” Fa’alogo described signing the huge contract as a dream come true. Pundits have already urged Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy to include him as a wildcard off the bench as soon as feasible. “Playing beside guys like Cameron Munster, Ryan Papenhuyzen, Harry Grant, and Jahrome Hughes is truly amazing for me,” Fa’alogo remarked.
“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.”
Long-serving Storm football boss, Frank Ponissi, said Fa’alogo had come a long way since joining the club in 2021 and was an exciting long-term addition to Melbourne’s line-up.
“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.”
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.
