Melbourne Storm has today granted Kevin Proctor a release from the final two years of his contract.
The Club has reluctantly agreed to release Proctor in order to allow him to relocate his young family back to the Gold Coast where he grew up.
The 27-year-old will join the Titans in an opportunity that will allow him to start building towards the end of his career and life after football.
He departs Melbourne as one of the Club’s greatest servants.
Proctor has played 179 games in the purple jersey, scoring 28 tries and developing a lethal right edge combination with halfback Cooper Cronk and centre Will Chambers.
The New Zealand International also sits sixth on Storm’s all time games played list after making his NRL debut in 2008.
Proctor played in Storm’s 2009 NYC Premiership as well as the 2012 NRL Premiership side, both alongside fellow Kiwi and great mate Jesse Bromwich.
The second rower brought intensity, desire and passion to every game he played for Melbourne over the past nine seasons. He has also played an instrumental role as part of the Club’s Emerging Leaders group.
The Club will now look to the likes of exciting youngsters Felise Kaufusi, Joe Stimson and Vincent Leuluai to fill the sizeable void.
Football Director Frank Ponissi said Proctor would be sorely missed at the Club.
“KP has been a massive part of our football club over the last nine years,” Ponissi said.
“He set an example for the rest of the playing group with his work ethic and relentless approach to seeing this Club succeed. He has been a mainstay of our line-up, having only missed 10 games since the start of 2011.
“KP is extremely popular with our staff and playing group and the influence he has had on our younger players will no doubt help them step in to fill his position within the team.
“While we would have loved to have seen him play the remainder of his career in the purple jersey, we understand the opportunity for both him and his young family to return home to the Gold Coast.
“We wish both Kevin, his partner Leesa and their daughters the best of luck for the next chapter of their lives, they will always be welcome here as a part of the Storm family.”
Proctor said he was thankful for all the Club had done for him.
“I’d like to thank Melbourne Storm for everything they’ve done for my family and I during my time at the Club, particularly Craig, the players and staff.
“A special thanks to the Storm members and fans, I’ve felt nothing but love from everyone since I played my first game.
“To leave Storm was an incredibly tough decision, I have some great memories and made some lifelong friends, my family and I are excited for what lies ahead.”
