LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Ryan Papenhuyzen stunned the rugby league community last month by announcing his decision to step away from the NRL to evaluate his long-term career in professional sports.
Frank Ponissi, the director of football for the Melbourne Storm, expressed optimism that the talented fullback might return to the NRL after taking a year off from the game.
During a conversation on SEN Radio, Ponissi stated that the club is fully committed to supporting their star player and remains hopeful that he will reconsider his decision.
"I hope [he comes back to the NRL], he's got so much to offer," Ponissi remarked.
"But in fairness to Paps, he's gone through a fair bit over the last few years."
After suffering from a series of injuries, the 27-year-old Papenhuyzen has expressed uncertainty about continuing his playing career or exploring opportunities beyond rugby league.
Papenhuyzen made a significant impact as one of the NRL's most thrilling young talents, having won the Clive Churchill Medal during the 2020 Grand Final.