Storm still in mix for Young talent

THE door at the Melbourne Storm remains open to utility back Young Tonumaipea, who will quit the NRL club in July to follow his faith and become a missionary.

But history doesn’t favour Tonumaipea making a top-line return to rugby league.

A devout Morman, Tonumaipea shocked the Storm by announcing his plans to leave after the State of Origin period for a two-year mission in Germany despite having a year and a half to run on his contract.

The 25-year old premiership player, who has played 40 first grade games since making his NRL debut in 2014 and has made four appearance this year, will use the time to teach his faith and conduct service in communities. Storm boss Dave Donaghy said he was surprised by Tonumaipea’s decision but admired his courage.

“I find it incredibly admirable that you’d walk away from your career when you’re really in your peak – in your mid 20s – and particularly given how hard he’s had to work,” Donaghy said. He plans to meet with the Victorian-born player following their bye this weekend but said if Tonumaipea kept fit he still had “plenty of footy in him”.