Melbourne Storm have today confirmed the departure of NSW Cup Head Coach Mark Russell, who will return to Sydney after accepting a new senior coaching opportunity for the 2027 season.
Russell joined Storm ahead of the 2023 season, taking on a part-time coaching role with the Club’s Jersey Flegg side, before moving into a full-time role in 2024 as Jersey Flegg Head Coach and Pathways Coach, playing a key role in Storm’s ‘Road to AAMI Park’ strategy.
Russell’s impact on the Club’s pathways was highlighted in 2025, when he guided Storm’s Jersey Flegg side to a dominant Minor Premiership before overcoming Penrith in the Grand Final to claim the Club’s first U21 premiership.
His achievements culminated in Russell being appointed the inaugural Head Coach of Storm’s NSW Cup side for the 2026 season.
Eight players from Russell’s 2025 Jersey Flegg premiership-winning side have gone on to make their NRL debuts for Melbourne Storm in 2026, highlighting his significant contribution to the Club’s player pathway.
Director of Football Frank Ponissi thanked Russell for his service to Storm and his contribution to the continued growth of the Club’s pathways across Melbourne and Victoria.
“Mark has contributed enormously to our Pathways Program, and our pathways is in far better shape today than it was in late 2022 when he first arrived and we will be forever grateful,” Ponissi said.
“We wish Mark and his wife Wendy the very best with their move back to Sydney and for Mark’s new coaching opportunity in 2027. We thank them both for their outstanding contribution to Melbourne Storm.”
Commenting on his time at Melbourne Storm and his departure to Sydney, Russell said.
“I will be forever grateful for my time at Melbourne Storm and in particular the way my family has been accepted with open arms.
“The past four years have been extremely rewarding in terms of players moving through our program and of course having some on field success. I hope that my time here has been of benefit to our pathway's players, staff, and program in general.
“There are too many people to thank, however I must thank Frank for giving me the opportunity to work in such an amazing club and Matt Duffie for the four years of coaching together making everyday a pleasure to be here.”
