Melbourne Storm forward Tepai Moeroa has re-signed for a further two years, keeping him at the club until at least the end of the 2023 NRL season.
The 25-year-old managed just seven games in two years after signing with the NSW Waratahs for the 2020 season, before making his return to rugby league earlier this season.
Moeora was an elite junior prospect in both codes, attending Newington College in Sydney, but opted for the 13-man game to begin his professional career.
He would go on to play 112 games for the Parramatta Eels between 2014-2019, and represented the World All Stars and Prime Minister's XIII during that time.
Moeroa's return to the NRL went largely unnoticed, but his extension with Melbourne will likely see him become a prominent part of the side under Craig Bellamy in the coming years.
2 years for Tep.
— Melbourne Storm 🏆 (@storm) September 2, 2021
More: https://t.co/6Q0EVPEOU4 pic.twitter.com/ZIZIqjrjIN
Storm general manager of football Frank Ponissi praised the forward for the way he has settled in since joining the club.
“Although he’s had limited minutes in his gametime so far, he’s shown that he is a very good fit for our club, on and off the field,” he said.
“Switching clubs mid-year isn’t easy and changing codes, plus having to adapt to the camp situation with the COVID lockdown, makes it even more challenging.
“Tepai hasn’t had the benefit of setting up home with his young family in Melbourne and enjoying the benefits that brings.
"He’s adapted very well to the circumstances he’s faced and will be even better next year for the experiences he’s had this season.”
Moeroa will line up for the Storm on Friday night when they take on the Cronulla Sharks.