It was an impressive, yet short-lived season for Melbourne Storm’s 2022 Best Back of the Year, Ryan Papenhuyzen.
One of the NRL’s most damaging fullbacks, Papenhuyzen made 12 appearances on the first-grade for the year. Unfortunately, a hamstring tear in Round 10 and then fractured kneecap in Round 18 ruled him out for the remainder of the season.
Despite only playing half the season, Papenhuyzen wasted no time when on the field. The 24-year-old’s early efforts retained his place as Storm’s second overall point scorer (139), second overall try scorer (14) and overall goal scorer (41) coming in with a 78.8% conversion rate.
The number one's efforts were specially recognised in Storm’s annual ANZAC Day clash against the Warriors. Awarded to the best on ground, the young star was awarded the Spirit of ANZAC Medal.
Nine try-assists, 36 tackle-breaks, 13 line-breaks, 394 receipts and averaging 120 run metres per game, Papenhuyzen continues to show he’s in a class of his own in the fullback position.
