LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Ryan Papenhuyzen is not just a star on the field, but a keen student off it.
The Storm are on the hunt for perfection in the upcoming finals, and Papenhuyzen's decision to trade his boots for books could be the secret weapon they need.
In the high-pressure world of Rugby League, having a sharp mind is just as crucial as having lightning-fast footwork.
Papenhuyzen, known for his exceptional footy IQ, has been hitting the books to fine-tune his mental game for the challenges ahead.
While he may have once shrugged off books in school, Papenhuyzen now understands the importance of mental preparation in the game.
Battling injuries in recent times, the 26-year-old turned to reading to stay sharp and focused.
"I never would have thought I'd be a bookworm back in my school days," Papenhuyzen admitted.
"But after facing setbacks, I realized that improving mentally is just as vital as training physically."
From classics like "Rich Dad Poor Dad" to motivational reads, Papenhuyzen has found a new passion for learning off the field.
As the Storm aim for perfection in the finals, Pap's newfound knowledge could be the key to unlocking success.
"I may have swapped my boots for books, but it's all part of the game plan," Papenhuyzen said with a grin.
"In Rugby League, you've got to be ready for anything - on and off the field.
So why not sharpen the mind along with the skills?"