Storm re-sign Coates

PAPUA New Guinea international Xavier Coates celebrated his new Storm deal with a try in Melbourne’s 44-0 shutout of the visiting Canterbury Bulldogs in round four of Australia’s National Rugby League yesterday.
The winger has extended his time in the purple jersey, signing on until 2026.
The gifted 21-year-old may have made his National Rugby League debut with the Broncos and can already add State of Origin to his resume, but it’s with Melbourne that Coates says he has found a home.
“Since the moment I landed in Melbourne, I’ve loved my time so far,” the Kumuls winger said.
“I think pre-season is supposed to be the most gruelling part of the season, but it’s probably the most enjoyable part of my rugby league career so far.”
Coach Craig Bellamy praised the winger, who has scored in three of his first four games in purple, sharing the impression that the recruit had left so far on the group.
“Xavier has done a great job for us,” he said.
“Since he has been here, he’s certainly been one of our best trainers.
“He showed in those first couple of games what he’s about.
“He’s only a 21-year-old and has already played Origin, so I think they’re sort of sums up his ability, but (also) his commitment to play his best game week in, week out.”
Displaying his team-first ethos, the winger said he was not the star of the show.
“It is pretty nice (to score tries),” Coates said.
“But all the players do the hard work in the middle and I get the rewards on the edge, so it’s simple for me. I just have to try and finish it off, and I score tries for the team.” – melbournestorm