MELBOURNE Storm has bolstered its playing list for 2009 with the signing of former New Zealand international Wairangi Koopu.
Koopu, still only 28, will add further muscle to the Storm’s forward pack next season after signing a one-year-deal with the club.
The former Warrior commenced pre-season training with the Storm squad today.
The move marks a new chapter in Koopu’s NRL career after a successful 164-game stint with the New Zealand Warriors.
Koopu, who made his first-grade debut against Melbourne in 1999, also played three Tests for the Kiwis in 2004-05.
Storm assistant coach Michael Maguire said: `He’s got a good frame, looks athletic and he’s had a lot of first grade experience which will significantly help out the young squad we’ve got for next season.
`He looked pretty sharp at training this morning. I think he’s still got plenty to offer at this level.’’