Hoffman signs three year Storm deal
Melbourne have today announced the resigning of former Storm and current Wigan back rower Ryan Hoffman on a three-year deal.
Hoffman is currently contracted to Wigan and will complete his contract with the current Super League Champions before returning to the club he joined as an 18-year-old.
Melbourne have moved quickly to sign Hoffman after Adam Blair‘s depature to Wests Tigers was confirmed.
The Australian has made 23 appearances for Wigan this season, following 170 matches for the Storm, as well as 5 NEW Origin appearances and 4 appearances for the Kangaroos.
Commenting on the announcement, Hoffman stated “I’m really excited the opportunity has presented itself for me to re-join Storm, having started my career there and sharing so many wonderful memories and friendships”
“This year with Wigan has been outstanding. The club and fans have been great, and they have made me and my wife Mel very welcome”
“When I left Storm, the hardest part of the decision was leaving the only professional rugby league club I have ever played for, but Blairy moving on has created an opportunity for me to return to where it started.
“I have a burning desire to be a 10 year Storm player, joining Matt Geyer, Cameron Smith and by next year Billy Slater in the 200 games club.
“Mel and I are looking forward to returning to our family and friends in Melbourne, however my immediate focus is with Wigan and finishing off what we have started in the Challenge Cup and Super League.”
Melbourne Coach Craig Bellemy commented “We all know the positive attributes he brings to our club, his professionalism and dedication is unquestionable.
“I actually played footy with Ryan’s father Jay, so I have known him since he was a kid. We have grown together over the years, me as a coach and Ryan as a footballer, enjoying plenty of highlights through club and representative football.
“We are delighted to be able to make way in our roster for him to finish his career at Melbourne Storm and we all look forward to him achieving many more milestones over the next three years.
“Hoffy is a traditionalist and I’m sure that had a lot to do with why he joined Wigan in the first place, I know he will be hell bent on finishing off on the right note before he returns to Australia.”