The Melbourne Storm have moved to secure one of their brightest young talents, extending the contract of highly regarded prospect Waka Hammond until the end of the 2027 NRL season.
Already contracted until 2026, the 17-year-old playmaker has agreed to a 12-month extension, ensuring rival clubs will be unable to approach him when the player market officially opens on November 1.
Capable of playing at fullback or in the halves, Hammond has been a standout in the Storm’s pathways program, impressing with his speed, sharp footwork, and lethal right-foot step.
Hammond’s extension caps off a breakout year in the Storm’s pathways system, with the teenager crowned the 2024 Young Tonumaipea Award winner and named the club’s Harold Matthews Cup Player of the Year.
MORE: ‘So disrespectful’: Danika Mason under fire for controversial call-out of Harry Grant
His performances have also translated to higher levels, with nine appearances already in the Under-21s Jersey Flegg Cup despite still being eligible for the SG Ball Cup for another two years.
Versatile across the spine, Hammond also led Hallam Secondary College to victory in the Storm Cup earlier this year, further cementing his status as one of Victoria’s brightest rugby league prospects.
A standout in the club’s pathways program, Hammond has been earmarked as a cornerstone of Melbourne’s future, alongside fellow rising stars Cooper Clarke (signed through 2028) and Jai Bowden (signed through 2027).
Hallam coach Janan Billings says Hammond’s rise and achievements highlight the growing opportunities for young rugby league players in Victoria.
“It shows clearly now to all the young kids in Victoria there is a clear pathway with Waka being in high school and playing at under-21 level,” Billings told the Herald Sun in 2024.
“He's setting the groundwork for a lot of other Victorians. He has the potential and the ingredients to go all the way and play NRL.”