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He did not exactly grow up in Victoria but we are more than happy to claim him.

Jake Webster was born in Melbourne but after just a few years moved up to Brisbane with his father.

He would eventually return south though, all grown up and ready to pull on the purple jersey.

Webster made 49 appearances for Melbourne Storm, scoring 28 tries between 2003-06.

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He spent one year with the Gold Coast before heading to the UK where he linked up with Hull Kingston Rovers for several seasons.

He now plays for Castleford Tigers who currently sit two wins clear on top of the English Super League table.

After nearly 10 years in the UK, Webster admits he is used to the cold and dreary weather as well as the small town life – Castleford being home to only 40,000 residents.

The 33-year-old has some familiar faces to keep him company, with Junior Moors and Ben Roberts also running around with the Tigers.

The trio are just some of the many former Storm players currently playing in the UK and their purple pride still runs deep.

“That love and respect for Melbourne is something that we all share,” Webster said.

“Whenever we cross paths we all have our own little stories about how much we loved Melbourne, how hard the training was and Bellyache’s blowups so it is quite funny catching up after games.

“Everyone has fond memories, we still share them so it is great to talk about it.”

Webster could not speak highly enough of what Melbourne Storm provided him during his four seasons.

“Everything I am now is because of what Melbourne gave me,” Webster said.

“They gave me an opportunity and made me realise where I needed to be football-wise.

“The attitude change they instilled in has held me in good stead for a long time. I owe everything to Melbourne really, I hold the Club close to my heart.

He says he would have loved to return and play for Storm but understands that ship has probably sailed. Also a girlfriend and baby due in October means life is pretty settled now in the UK.

Webster does miss Melbourne though.

The city was something special for him but nothing can replace the friendships he formed there.

“I miss the city and how the boys were so close,” Webster said.

“All the boys come from all over to be in Melbourne and that is all you know. You are like a family and it is just not something you find anywhere else.

“I went up to the Gold Coast and it wasn’t the same, in Sydney they’ve got their own clicks but when you’re in Melbourne it is like a family and you do everything together.

“If you ever need anything, everyone is just a phone call away so that is something you always miss.”

Acknowledgement of Country

Melbourne Storm respect and honour the Traditional Custodians of the land and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on the lands we meet, gather and play on.