Melbourne Storm has extended the contracts of two young players who have shown strong development over the past two years.
Forward Alec Macdonald has locked in a four-year extension until the end of the 2028 season while outside back Grant Anderson has extended his contract by another year to the end of 2025.
Born in New Zealand, Macdonald first came to Storm from Wynnum-Manly for the start of pre-season training for the 2022 season and has now played 35 games for the club.
After impressing throughout the summer, he stepped up to earn a debut in a round one victory against Wests Tigers, becoming Storm player #221.
Macdonald played 12 games in his rookie season, another 12 in 2023 and has 11 matches in the bank in 2024.
“I’m stoked to have been given a contract for the next few years. It feels like all my hard work has paid off. I can now focus on my footy and improving even more,” the 22-year-old said.
“When I was younger, I struggled to make rep teams so I’m really grateful to Tim Glasby who first spotted me and gave me my first opportunity at Storm. Also super grateful to Bellsa and the club for taking a chance on me.
“When I first came down, Brisbane was home but now I feel that Melbourne is that. I love the club, the culture and the lifestyle down here.
“I also have a great team and roommate in Joe Chan who I hope also stays with the club so we can progress our careers together.”
Newcastle-born Anderson (player #222) made his NRL and Storm debut against the Sydney Roosters in round 14 two years ago, memorably scoring two tries in a win at the SCG.
His seven matches this year – five in the starting line-up – represent his most in an NRL season and he now has a total of 17 with starts in Storm’s last four victories with the prospect of more to come as the club pushes towards the finals.
‘This is my third year here now and I’m stoked to be here for longer because the club is like a second family,” the 24-year-old said.
“I was playing under-20s and then Covid hit so to be honest I didn’t know where I would end up career-wise.
“I was fortunate to be picked up by the Northern Pride for a season and then the Sunshine Coast Falcons. I came down to the Storm on a pre-season trial and the rest is history.
“I always dreamed of playing NRL so to be here still doing that is really special and for my family and partner for all the sacrifices and support they have shown to help me along the way, I can’t wait to rip in with the lads.“