Melbourne skipper Cameron Smith says he will make a decision on his NRL playing future after a family holiday.
Speaking at the Storm end of season awards Smith said that he was still undecided about whether to play out the final year of his contract in 2020.
“I’ve got a break coming up so I will put my feet up for about 10 days and relax and come back refreshed and put this season’s disappointment out of my mind and make a decision then,” Smith said.
While Smith is still undecided, Will Chambers confirmed he will leave the Storm and return to rugby union.
The veteran centre, who joined the Storm initially back in 2007, has signed to play in Japan.
The 31-year-old was made life member of the NRL club at their end of season presentation night on Tuesday night.
Storm coach Craig Bellamy said Chambers was long regarded as the best centre in the NRL.
“He’s been one hell of a player for our club,” Bellamy said, with the pair embracing in the stage.
“His contribution as a player has been wonderful and that’s what we will always remember.
“I’m so glad that I’m still here to announce his life membership.”
An emotional Chambers, who has played 218 games with the Storm, said he’d miss pulling on the purple jersey.
“You’ve made me a better footballer and a better person,” he said.
“To Craig, I came down here as a 28-year-old with more than a few rough edges and leave as a 31-year-old father of two.
“You’ve been a footy coach, a mate and more importantly you’ve been like a dad.
“I’m so glad I’ve had the opportunity to come back to this club.”
Born in the Northern Territory before going to school in Brisbane, Chambers spent four seasons with the Storm before leaving in 2010 for two years in rugby union with Queensland and in Ireland.
A veteran of 14 Origins for Queensland, he also played seven Tests for Australia.
Smith was pipped for the Storm player of the year award by Dale Finucane, with the lock storming home in the finals to overtake his captain in the voting.
Stormy
Roar Rookie
Agree with most of what you say, Joe, but question "servant" - I think he was probably paid quite well.
The Barry
Roar Guru
Not many people’s favourite player but he always put in. For a couple of years there he could have made claim to being the best centre in the game. It’s good to have a few ‘bad guys’ in the competition but whether we like him or not I think we should remember that he’s put his body on the line to keep us entertained six months a year. Good luck in the future
Pete
Guest
Wasn't to flash in Super rugby guess the easy money is in Japanese rugby.
Joe
Roar Rookie
Its the right time for Chambers to go. He has been such a great servant for the Storm. Didn't always agree with his antics but can't question his absolute loyalty and effort for the club. Great clubman for the Storm and I wish him and his family well in Japan.
JOHN ALLAN
Guest
Latrell Mitchell will miss him just like he used to miss Mitchell in defence.
Andrew
Guest
From playing 3 Origin games to obscurity in the same year. Not Since Mark Hohn in 1995 has anyone dropped away so quickly..
Paul
Roar Guru
It's a good time for Chambers to leave the game on his own terms. He should do well back in Rugby with his skillset. Great to see Dale Finucane score player of the year for the Storm. IMO he's a champion player.
Duncan Smith
Roar Guru
Great career for the Storm, now he deserves to pick up some retirement dollars in Japan.