Storm end of season Player Awards

Hooker Cameron Smith has capped a remarkable season by winning Melbourne's player of the year at the Storm's awards dinner at the Crown Palladium.

The accolade comes after a sensational season in which he won the Dally M player of the year award, Melbourne won the minor premiership and Queensland the State of Origin series. Smith was also named in the Australian squad for the upcoming Tri-Nations series this week and is considered a certainty to make his Test debut.

Outstanding teenage centre Greg Inglis was named the best back after he scored 18 tries in 19 games, made his Queensland Origin debut and was also selected for the Kangaroos Tri-Nations campaign.

Second rower Ryan Hoffman was named the best forward after playing all 27 matches for the Storm, including Sunday's heartbreaking grand final loss to Brisbane.

Halfback Cooper Cronk predictably won the most improved award after he assumed the pivot role vacated by Matt Orford and won the Dally M halfback of the year award.

Kiwi prop Adam Blair was named rookie of the year.

England-bound five-eighth Scott Hill, former club boss John Ribot and 1999 premiership coach Chris Anderson were given life membership.