Johnson seals future with Storm

Tough back-rower Dallas Johnson will stay in Melbourne until 2006 after the exciting young forward agreed to a new two-year deal with the Storm today.

After coming through the Storm?s feeder system with Brisbane Norths, 21-year-old Johnson has blossomed under coach Craig Bellamy and played 20 games in his debut NRL season last year.

?It?s really good to finally have everything sorted out, I think both parties were getting a bit tired of going back and forth so it?s just good to know what I?m doing for the next couple of years,? Johnson explained.

?The coach and the culture here at the club are great and the guys are an excellent group.?

With Melbourne?s ageing forward pack set to turnover in coming seasons coach Craig Bellamy will be relying on several of his younger forwards to step up as part of a new-look forward pack.

?I guess I?ll be trying to be a bit more of a leader in the club in the future, but basically I?ll just be concentrating on playing good football for the club on a consistent basis,? Queensland-born Johnson added.

Johnson?s re-signing comes hot on the heels of Melbourne?s recent activity in the player market following the signing of Bulldogs pair Dennis Scott and Jamie Feeney for next season, along with young Manly prop Ian Donnelly.

Melbourne takes on ladder leaders the Sydney Roosters this Sunday from 3pm at Olympic Park.

STORM TRAINING THIS WEEK Thursday: 11am, Olympic Park Saturday: 10am, Olympic Park

For further information contact

James Avery: Phone (03) 9421 3222 Mobile: 0411 623 024 javery@melbournestorm.com.au