Melbourne Storm would not support second NRL team in Victoria

Storm officials have sent a clear message to Peter V’landys over his claims a second NRL team in Victoria would be a good move.

Melbourne Storm chief executive Justin Rodski says a second Melbourne team won’t work. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Crosling

Melbourne Storm boss Justin Rodski has shot down suggestions a second NRL team in Victoria could work, declaring the lack of funding from league headquarters had hurt the game’s growth.

Commission chairman Peter V’landys has put the idea on the game’s agenda, declaring the NRL was ready to investigate a second team in Victoria as part of plans to introduce a 20th team.

As well as creating a potential cross-town rivalry like the Dolphins have in Brisbane, V’landys cited another reason as being that “our junior base in Victoria has expanded considerably”.

But that was disputed by Rodski on Wednesday who said his club would not support any moves to plant a second team in the state.

“We wouldn’t support a second team in Victoria, the Storm have been in Melbourne for 25 years, we’ve established a great brand, loyal membership, great crowds, we think we hold a special place in the Melbourne sporting landscape,” Rodski said.

“We’ve been disappointed with the lack of funding from the NRL to put more resources into junior pathways and participation in Victoria.

Storm has become part of the Melbourne sporting landscape. Picture: Graham Denholm/Getty Images

“As a result of that I don’t think the grassroots and the community rugby league is anywhere near strong enough to support (another) team let alone the commercial reality.”

Storm has been a runaway success in AFL-dominated Melbourne based largely on its success under long-term coach Craig Bellamy and the list of stars who have played for the club, including NRL legends Cameron Smith and Billy Slater.

Rodski said that success would be hindered, not helped, by the introduction of another team and there were many other, better locations for a 20th side.

“I just don’t think Victoria is the place for expansion, I think the NRL should be looking at New Zealand, potentially Perth and even that team around a Cairns team with a Pasifika flavour,” Rodski told SEN.

“(Those locations) would certainly be, in my mind and the Melbourne Storm’s view, a much better direction to take.

Melbourne Storm chief executive Justin Rodski says Melbourne isn’t the place for a second NRL team. Picture: Patrick Woods

“There are (possible) pockets out in Melbourne … but certainly not a large demographic of rugby league players and supporters to bring this forward.

“I just don’t feel like this market is the right option for expansion and I think in time that will play out.”

Rodski’s comments are supported by those of the Storm’s captain Christian Welch, who was stunned to hear the idea and shut it down just as quick.