Ryan Hoffman Signs Three-Year Deal With the Warriors
Ryan Hoffman has signed a three-year deal worth $1.6 million with the New Zealand Warriors and considered the decision as a right move for him. He has to leave his family in Melbourne and move to Auckland.
Ryan's joining could be a major boost to the team as he will team up with Simon Mannering in the second row from next season.
Ryan was happy joining the Wanderers and looking forward to accept the challenge.
"I couldn't be happier with the chance to move to Auckland next year ... "I've had a terrific time with Melbourne and obviously I still have a long way to go before I finish here. That's the immediate focus for me. I want to finish well because this club has done so much for me ... But along with my family, I'm excited about coming to the Warriors. I've been really impressed with the club and the way they have gone about the process ... I never need reminding about how good the Warriors are. I've played in enough Melbourne sides when we've finished on the wrong side including just a couple of weeks ago in our Anzac Day match ... They're such a tough side to play against and I really look forward to being part of the club once I get there. I've been fortunate to play in four grand finals so far with the Storm and I'm determined to experience more with the Warriors," Ryan said.
Melbourne Storm Director Frank Ponissi was disappointed to lose Hoffman.
"Ryan has contributed so much to the success of the club on and off-field during his 11 seasons at Storm ... We are disappointed to lose him and there's no doubt he will be sorely missed by players, staff and fans, however he will leave on very good terms ... We will miss the positive attributes Ryan brings to our club, his professionalism and dedication, which has helped make him a very successful rugby league player ... We know the passion and commitment Ryan plays with and know he will be looking to finish the season off with his teammates in the best possible fashion ... Ryan is a Melbourne Storm premiership player and life member and, along with his wife Melissa and family, will always be welcome at the Club when it comes time to say goodbye," Ponissi said.