Melbourne Storm will field a stand-alone reserve-grade team in the NSW Cup from 2026, marking the first time the club has entered its own side in the competition.
The move is part of a sweeping restructure of the Storm’s pathways system, which will also see the introduction of two female squads in the U17 and U19 grades.
Storm CEO Justin Rodski described the expansion as a watershed moment for rugby league in Victoria.
“This move will continue critical local investment into the future of our Club and help to set us up for success on the field for the years ahead,” he said. “We are also thrilled to be able to introduce two female Melbourne Storm sides next year following the success of our Female Development Squad over the past two seasons.”
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Clearer path for local talent
The changes mean Victorian juniors now have a direct route from the U17s all the way through to first grade, without leaving the Storm system. Mark Russell, currently head coach of the U21s, will lead the new NSW Cup team, while Todd Lowrie takes on the role of Head of Development. Former Storm stars Justin O’Neill and Ryan Hoffman will also step into coaching positions alongside Matt Duffie in the U19 program.
The restructure will bring an end to Storm’s feeder club relationships with Brisbane Tigers, Sunshine Coast Falcons and North Sydney Bears at the close of 2025. Football director Frank Ponissi thanked the clubs for their support but stressed the importance of investing closer to home. “It’s critical that we continue to invest in our pathways structure here in Victoria and build on the success of our Storm Academy,” he said.
The club now boasts seven teams across NRL, male and female pathways, underlining its long-term commitment to nurturing talent within Victoria.