The Brisbane Tigers have today confirmed that their long-standing affiliation with the Melbourne Storm will come to an end following the 2025 season.
Since the affiliation began in 2011, the Tigers and Storm have forged one of the most productive development partnerships in Australian rugby league, with a strong pathway that has consistently produced NRL-calibre talent. Among the most notable players recruited by Melbourne through the Tigers system are Queensland Origin stars Cameron Munster, Christian Welch, Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, Harry Grant, Trent Loiero, as well as Kenny Bromwich, Marion Seve, Dean Ieremia, Jordan Grant, and more.
Brisbane Tigers CEO Mitch Cook paid tribute to the shared achievements of the two clubs over the past 15 years.
“We are incredibly proud of the 15-year partnership between the Brisbane Tigers and the Melbourne Storm. Together, we’ve built a strong development pathway that has produced exceptional talent and lasting success—most notably our 2023 premiership.
While our formal affiliation comes to a close, we remain grateful for the trust, collaboration, and shared achievements. We wish the Storm every success in their next pathway chapter and hope to continue supporting their recruitment efforts into the future.”
— Mitch Cook, CEO, Brisbane TigersMelbourne Storm Football Director Frank Ponissi thanked each of the feeder clubs for
their relationships with the Storm.“Brisbane Tigers have helped produce some brilliant Storm players over the last 14
years and have always provided a strong system for our players to come into. Having
several Storm listed players across the course of the season, including seven on Grand
Final day contribute to the Tigers drought breaking premiership in 2023 is undoubtedly a
highlight.”
– Frank Ponissi, Football Director, Melbourne Storm.
The Tigers will continue strengthening their independent programs and continuing their long-standing commitment to developing elite rugby league talent through the Hostplus Cup, BMD Premiership, and junior pathways.
Further updates on the club’s 2026 structure and future NRL affiliation will be shared in due course.
