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Mounties Rugby League Secures Landmark Partnership with the Melbourne Storm to Strengthen Player Pathways

Mounties Rugby League is proud to announce a landmark partnership with leading NRL powerhouse, the Melbourne Storm, establishing a clear and credible progression route for emerging players aspiring to reach the NRL.

Commencing in 2026, the partnership will bring together the Melbourne Storm’s elite high-performance standards with Mounties’ strong reputation for developing and progressing players.

The rugby-league-only agreement represents a major step forward for Mounties Rugby League, positioning it at the forefront of elite player development and pathways.

Seven Mounties Rugby League players have already been invited to trial with the Melbourne Storm’s Jersey Flegg team, with four coming from Mounties juniors.

Club captain Joseph Tramontana also secured an NRL trial with the Melbourne Storm against the Canberra Raiders. A standout contributor to Mounties over the past three seasons, Tramontana’s selection reflects both his dedication and the growing opportunities this partnership is generating for players across the club.

Alex Miller, Mounties Rugby League Football Manager, said the partnership is a crucial step in providing meaningful opportunities for players, coaches, and staff within the game:

“This partnership is about giving our players and our program the very best chance to succeed,” Miller said. “Aligning with the Melbourne Storm sets a new standard for what our pathways can offer. Their commitment to excellence, development and professionalism mirrors our own values, and this agreement ensures our emerging talent has a genuine and credible pathway to the highest level.”

Steve Fitzpatrick, President of Mounties Group, said the partnership reflects Mounties’ ongoing, deep commitment to serving local communities:

“Mounties Group understands the importance of supporting those in our local communities and providing them with meaningful opportunities that genuinely make a difference.

“This partnership reinforces our commitment to creating genuine pathways for talented players, right from U6 to the highest, elite level. Aligning with an organisation of Melbourne Storm’s calibre validates the work being done across our programs and provides our athletes with an elite environment to grow, develop and pursue their NRL ambitions.” 

Frank Ponissi, Melbourne Storm Director of Football, welcomed the partnership, highlighting the shared values between the two organisations and the importance of strong development pathways in building long-term success:

“Mounties Rugby League has a strong reputation for developing players and fostering high standards. We see this as a valuable alignment that will support emerging talent and strengthen our pathways system for years to come. This partnership will support our new team in the 2026 NSW Cup competition by providing excellent opportunities for players not selected to play with a strong club in the Ron Massey Cup”.

Since entering the NRL in 1998, the Melbourne Storm has reached the finals in all but three seasons, contested ten Grand Finals and secured four official premierships, setting a benchmark for sustained success across generations.

Mounties Rugby League also has a strong history of contributing to the NRL landscape, including its partnership with the Canberra Raiders NRLW program since 2023. That program has been instrumental in launching professional careers, including that of Logan Lemusu, despite being born with one hand, continues to inspire women and people with disability through resilience, determination and courage.