Former Mitchell Magpie in pre-selection for Melbourne Storm

ONE of the finest players to come out of Southwest Queensland is currently in preselection for Melbourne Storm.

Intrust Super Cup match between Ipswich Jets and Tweed Seagulls. Michael Purcell.

BORN and raised in southwest Queensland, young footy legend Michael ‘Purcy’ Purcell could be set to play for Melbourne Storm next year.

The former Mitchell Magpie has been given a shot at the Storm’s preselection, which if successful, could lead to him donning the purple jersey and playing for one of Australia’s most successful NRL teams.

Raised in Roma and Charleville, Purcy would often make the trip to Mitchell to play with the Magpies.

He made it to the Queensland Outback side in 2013 and scored 15 tries in the carnival.

Then he went to the Ipswich Jets, debuting in March 2016 then moved on to Easts Tigers.

Magpies coaching director and Maranoa councillor John Birkett said he has seen some amazing things on the footy field from Purcy during his time in Mitchell.

“He’s a bit of a freak of nature,” Cr Birkett said.

“In his first game in Mitchell I didn’t know much about him, but he scored a number of tries.”

After playing for many years in Queensland, Purcy now has the opportunity to play NRL on the national stage for the reigning premiers.

And while Purcy came from Charleville, the Magpies like to claim him as one of their own.

“I’m glad that he’s finally reaping the rewards,” Cr Birkett said.

“I wish him all the best on behalf of the Mitchell footy club.”

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