The Melbourne Storm have formed a landmark partnership with European rugby union powerhouse Leinster, kicking off a cross-code player development exchange that could redefine how NRL clubs engage with international talent.
The Storm announced that the innovative agreement invited two promising Irish academy players in hooker Stephen Smyth and utility back Ruben Moloney, to spend several weeks embedded within the Storm’s elite training environment at AAMI Park.
The move signals the start of a reciprocal pathway between rugby league and rugby union at the developmental level.
In return, the Storm will send two academy players to Dublin later this year to experience life inside Leinster Rugby, one of Europe’s most successful rugby union programs.
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Smyth and Moloney didn’t just observe Storm operations, they trained alongside some of the NRL’s biggest names and participated in Jersey Flegg and academy-level sessions, team meetings, gym work, on-field drills, and recovery protocols.
“It’s been a great opportunity for myself to upgrade my craft and experience a completely different environment,” Smyth said.
“I’ve learnt so much about their professionalism, how the lads look after themselves, and how they prepare for game day,” he continued.
Moloney echoed the sentiment, saying the chance to train with elite edge players offered valuable insights.
“It’s been incredible being in the environment and throwing myself into a different code,” Moloney said.
The exchange program is the brainchild of Melbourne’s Player Wellbeing Coordinator Dylan Wolfgramm, who played a key role in facilitating the partnership.
“We’ve loved having Stephen and Ruben with us at Storm over the past few weeks,” Wolfgramm said.
“They’ve brought great energy, enthusiasm and a fresh perspective on how both codes operate. Both are incredibly talented athletes and outstanding young men,” he said.
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Wolfgramm confirmed that two Melbourne academy players will head to Ireland later in 2025 to immerse themselves in Leinster’s professional rugby union setup.
“We’re excited to continue building our relationship with Leinster Rugby,” Wolfgramm said.
This Melbourne Storm–Leinster Rugby partnership represents a first-of-its-kind international player development exchange between NRL and European rugby union, with potential long-term benefits for both codes.
By sharing high-performance practices and exposing players to different tactical systems, the collaboration aims to develop well-rounded athletes and strengthen ties between league and union at the elite level.