Hunter Valley product Josh King will bid the region farewell to take up a two-year deal with NRL premiers Melbourne Storm.
The Singleton Greyhounds junior has plied his trade with the Newcastle Knights in recent seasons, playing 76 NRL matches, but he told the club of his intention to move south at the end of 2021.
“He’s established himself as one of the hardest-working and most likeable players in the game, highlighted by his current nomination as Newcastle’s 2021 Ken Stephen Medal nominee,” the Knights said in a statement.
“An emotional Josh informed his team-mates and staff at the club’s Twin Waters hub on Tuesday night.
“He confirmed his strong desire to finish this year with everything he has and ensure he leaves the Knights on a high.”
The Storm were delighted to gain King’s signature for 2022 and 2023.
General manager – football Frank Ponissi said the 25-year-old had received a strong recommendation from his former Knights teammate Tim Glasby who is now on Melbourne’s recruitment staff.
“Josh displays a number of traits, which we love at Storm, and look for in players we recruit, both with his on-field performance and his character and personality off the field,” he stated.
“Tim had a close-up look at Josh as a team-mate and liked what he saw.
“He’s a hard worker, committed to improving his game and as a middle forward, we expect that his best years are still to come.
“We’re very happy he’s committed to spending the next two seasons with us and pushing for a place in our top 17.”
As well as being an accomplished NRL forward, King was praised for his work with the inspirational kids at the John Hunter Children’s Hospital.
His addition is the fourth to Storm’s NRL outfit this week.
Front-rower Jordan Grant will be part of the club’s top 30 squad for the first time in 2022 after signing a new contract with the defending champions.
Fijian international winger Isaac Lumelume has also agreed to terms with Melbourne for next season, while Bronson Garlick has signed a development contract for 2022.
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