Home Ground: AAMI Park, Melbourne

Coach: Craig Bellamy

TAB odds: Premiers: $3.80

Melbourne's attempt to dethrone the Penrith Panthers and secure their first premiership in four years was unsuccessful last season, and they will no doubt be seeking redemption in 2025. While disappointed by this loss, the Storm will regroup and recommence competition under Craig Bellamy's fierce leadership, and we expect their continued strong performance and competitiveness. The 2024 minor premiers' roster has remained largely unchanged during the off-season, with most players poised to contend for the premiership once again.

The Storm are projected to field a team comparable to the one that decisively won the minor premiership prior to their grand final loss against the Panthers. Their roster has been significantly strengthened by the acquisition of prominent giant STEFANO UTOIKAMANU from the Tigers. The addition of Stefano on a multi-year deal gives the Storm another big body in the front-row; and this guy is a giant much like NELSON ASOFA-SOLOMONA. Craig Bellamy does face a huge dilemma with young gun Sua Fa'alogo and it appears unlikely he will make the 17, however the rest of the side is stable.

We can expect the same spine of HARRY GRANT, RYAN PAPENHUYZEN, CAMERON MUNSTER and JAHROME HUGHES to work their magic and lay the platorm for some dynamic offensive moves. Following a remarkable season culminating in Hughes' Dally M Medal win, the team anticipates enhanced support from Papenhuyzen, Munster, and Grant in the 2025 season, after the trio's injury setbacks last year. The STORM'S success hinges on their steadfast head coach, Craig Bellamy, whose passionate displays in the coaching box are well-known. He is a highly skilled strategist, adept at developing winning game plans, and possesses an unwavering determination to avoid defeat. Although known for his demanding approach, Bellyache consistently cultivates peak performance in young players, inspiring exceptional team results in every match. He will be stung by missing out on the big prize last season and will do everything in his power to build towards another Grand Final appearance. Looks the side to beat.

First five: Eels (H), BYE, Panthers (H), Dragons (A), Sea Eagles (A)

Last year's finish: 1st (runner up)

Predicted 2025 finish: Premiers

PREDICTED STARTING SIDE

1. RYAN PAPENHUYZEN

2. WILL WARRICK

3. JACK HOWARTH

4. NICK MEANEY

5. XAVIER COATES

6. CAMERON MUNSTER

7. JAHROME HUGHES

8. STEFANO UITOIKAMANU

9. HARRY GRANT

10. NELSON ASOFA-SOLOMONA

11. ELI KATOA

12. SHAWN BLORE

13. TRENT LOIERO

14. TYRAN WISHART

15. TUI KAMIKAMICA

16. JOSH KING

17. JOE CHAN

PRE SEASON: Sat 15 Feb

Warriors v Storm at Go Media Stadium 1:30pm

Sun 23 Feb

Storm v Cowboys at Casey Fields, Cranbourne East 2:00pm