Former Wests Tigers bosses complete deal with Melbourne Storm

Justin Pascoe and Lee Hagipantelis, former executives of the Wests Tigers, are making strides back into sports management by acquiring the Sunshine Coast Lightning, a Super Netball team, from the Melbourne Storm.

The Storm has had a historical connection to the Sunshine Coast through their Queensland Cup team, the Falcons, and they committed to developing the netball program in 2016.

As the Storm prepares to establish junior female rugby league pathways and conclude their relationship with the Falcons at the end of the current season, CEO Justin Rodski mentioned that it is the right time to pass on ownership of the Lightning, a club that has achieved significant success in the competition.

"This move will now allow the club to focus on rugby league in the home of Victoria," Rodski explained.

"We have a strategic focus to invest in the core business, rugby league, and we are working closely in partnership with the NRL to grow the game, invest in pathways, and strengthen the academies to support the next generation of male and female future Storm stars."

In 2026, the Storm plans to have more teams than ever in its history, including a reserve grade team, which will be affiliated with the club for the first time. They will also participate in all junior New South Wales Rugby League competitions.

The sale to Global Sports Management, led by Pascoe and Hagipantelis, marks their continued return to the sports arena, having recently acquired the Ottawa Blackjacks in Canada and the Newcastle Jets in the A-League.