Fears Melbourne Storm would brush the Border after a controversial start have been allayed by one of the game's most respected officials.
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The announcement by Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews on Monday that sporting groups can train in groups of 10 from Wednesday means, as expected, the Storm will travel home after Tuesday's final session at the Albury Sportsground.
The Storm's arrival last week became the biggest talking point of Australian sport when Albury Council voted 5-4 not to allow the club to use council ground, Greenfield Park, over coronavirus fears.
Albury Sportsground was quickly made available, but there were genuine concerns the Border could be by-passed in future as a result of the controversy.
"We definitely want to come back in some capacity, whether that's a training camp or a pre-season trial," general manager of football Frank Ponissi said.
"Being able to come here and actually mix in the community would be the thing that we would like to do next, we'll definitely be back in Albury."
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Storm only visited its training base, the gym and accommodation.
"It's also mixed emotions (going home), we've obviously had a wonderful time here in Albury, in a way it's a little bit sad to leave Albury, but we're going back home and that's always a reason to celebrate," Ponissi said.
The Storm also released a statement.
"The Club would like to thank the Victorian Government for their assistance in bringing Storm home and allowing our players and staff to be with their families while they undertake their profession," it said.
"The Club would also like to pass on our thanks to the people of Albury, especially the Albury Tigers, Siesta Resort management and staff and the CrossFit gym, who have all kindly accommodated us and made us feel so welcome.
"The week-long camp has injected tens of thousands of dollars into the local economy, with more than 30 businesses receiving direct benefit from Storm's stay in the border town.
"In coming weeks, we will finalise initiatives to assist the local Chamber of Commerce with its post-coronavirus recovery, as well as continue discussions with the local rugby league fraternity about how we can help out community sport in the region."
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