Although an eye injury might see him missing action at present, Eli Katoa has gone from strength-to-strength since joining the Melbourne Storm.
His form was so impressive that the club took notice and penned a new deal that will see Katoa stay on until 2027.
Katoa, who made his NRL debut with the New Zealand Warriors back in 2020, had sporadic appearances.
A move to the Storm ahead of the 2023 season rejuvenated his career and the talented back-rower now has 59 NRL games to his name.
Moving clubs can be difficult but Katoa says the transition has been a smooth one for him, as he looks to return from his injury soon.
“I’ve got a good crew around me, the boys have been good and the coaching staff as well so yeah, life’s good,” said Katoa.
“I was back to training on Sunday so I’m just going through a little preseason.
“I haven’t done anything for a couple of weeks so I’m just getting back to running and should be back in two or three weeks.”
The Storm’s General Manager of Football Frank Ponissi is pleased at how Katoa has made the transition to the club so effortlessly.
“We’ve been really pleased with the way Eli has transitioned into the club and made an immediate impact,” said Ponissi.
“We know what he is capable of and we’re looking forward to seeing him hopefully go to new heights with us in the future.
“For now, we are solely focused on his rehabilitation and ensuring we are taking the time required, especially with such a delicate injury.”