Melbourne Storm new recruit Eliesa Katoa will make his debut in the purple jersey against the Eels tonight, becoming player 226 for the Club.
Born and raised in Tonga, Katoa moved to New Zeleand thanks to a scholarship from Tamaki College in 2017, allowing him to study while training.
Joining the Warriors after making his mark in rugby union for the Tamaki College First XV in Auckland's elite competition, he blasted onto the NRL scene in 2020, making a huge impression the moment he ran onto the field.
An intimidating presence on the edge, the 23-year-old joins the Storm contingent having played 46 NRL games for the Warriors and scoring the Club’s first try in their pre-season challenge win against the Warriors in February.
He will be one of three debutants in Storm’s 2023 season-opening clash with Parramatta, alongside Will Warbrick and Bronson Garlick.
