Foxx League: Josh Addo-Carr

Embed from Getty Images

As he prepares for what is likely to be his final game for the Storm, Josh Addo-Carr is remaining focused on the job at hand.

"This is what you spend all those hours in pre-season - all those video sessions, all those wrestling sessions - for this moment," said Addo-Carr. 

"Some of these boys are really excited in their first grand final week.

"I just want to enjoy my teammate's company and make some good memories.

Joining Melbourne after playing nine games with Wests Tigers in his debut year, the man affectionately dubbed "The Foxx" has left a lasting legacy with the Storm scoring 73 tries in 95 appearances.

Recognised as one of the Wingers of the Year at the 2020 Dally M Awards and earning representative honours for City, New South Wales, Australia and the Indigenous All Stars along the way, the 25-year-old speedster has formed a potent combination with Justin Olam over the past 18 months - a partnership that began when the left edge duo first joined the Storm during the 2017 pre-season.

"I knew that he had the potential of being a first grade player - it just took a bit of time.

"In my opinion he's the best centre in the game - attacking and defensively - it's an absolute pleasure playing alongside him. 

While his days of playing with the Papua New Guinea powerhouse are set to come to close on Sunday evening - a decision on his future will be made after the grand final - the proud Gadigal, Gunggandji and Wiradjuri man is determined to bring some much needed joy to the club's loyal supporters back in Victoria who will be unable to make the trip to ANZ Stadium for the decider.

"We wear the V on our chest for them. We've got a lot of messages from fans and members who really look forward to us playing on the weekends. They can't leave their house, so we try to put a smile on their face and make things exciting for them.

Eyeing his second title with the Storm after scoring a double in the 2017 victory over North Queensland, Addo-Carr feels immense pride in the impact he has made in the purple jersey over the past four years.
 
"Melbourne hold a special place in my heart and I'm really grateful to be a part of this club. 

"My name is on that wall with some of the greats and no one can take that away from me."

This article first appeared in the Grand Final edition of The Front Row. Check out the full edition here, with all past editions available here.