As is tradition each time the Melbourne Storm and New Zealand Warriors meet, Saturday’s clash will see both teams battle it out for the Michael Moore Trophy.
Awarded to the winning team, the trophy honours Storm’s inaugural Football Manager, Michael Moore, who tragically passed away in Auckland on the night of 2000 season’s opening round clash.
The trophy, presented by Michael’s family post-match, pays homage to Michael’s passion and love for the club, with his work laying the foundations for Storm’s systems and approach today.
24 years since the former manager’s passing, staff and players that never met Michael are still told the stories of his contributions, fostering the commitment to uphold his legacy.
“Most people at the Club now never met Mike, but they will always come and talk to you about him or really appreciate being able to play for the trophy. I think that's a huge thing that that story has continued,” Mick's wife Tracey explained last year.
“I feel very lucky that we have that opportunity and that the kids, in particular, get to see that and have for pretty much their whole life.”
The purple contingent currently retain the trophy after emerging victorious from last season’s ANZAC Day clash 30-22.
First presented in Round 1 of 2000, Storm have gone on to win the trophy 30 times, the Warriors 12, alongside two ties resulting in joint ownership.
The trophy will again be presented after Saturday’s game to the winning team and Captain out on the field.
