Justin Olam (born 23 December 1993) is a professional rugby league footballer who plays as a centre for the Wests Tigers in the National Rugby League (NRL) and for the Papua New Guinea national team. Known for his powerful running, strong defence, and try-scoring ability, Olam is a celebrated figure in both the NRL and his home country.
Early Life and Junior Career
Olam was born in Chimbu Province, Papua New Guinea, and grew up in the rural village of Gon, attending a local primary school. He later moved to Lae to attend university, where he studied a Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics at the PNG University of Technology. Olam initially played rugby union before transitioning to rugby league. He gained recognition playing for the Lae Snax Tigers in the Papua New Guinea National Rugby League (PNGNRL) competition, winning a premiership with them.Professional Career
PNG Hunters
Olam's talent was soon noticed, and he signed with the PNG Hunters, Papua New Guinea's team in the Queensland Cup (Australia's second-tier competition), for the 2016 season. He quickly became a standout player, helping the Hunters win their maiden Queensland Cup premiership in 2017. His performances in the Queensland Cup attracted attention from NRL clubs.Melbourne Storm
In 2017, Olam signed a two-year deal with the Melbourne Storm, making his NRL debut in Round 9 of the 2018 season. He quickly established himself as a fan favourite and a key component of the Storm's backline.- 2020 NRL Premiership: Olam was an integral part of the Melbourne Storm team that won the 2020 NRL Grand Final, defeating the Penrith Panthers. He scored a crucial try in the final, solidifying his reputation as a big-game player.
- 2021 Dally M Centre of the Year: His outstanding form in the 2021 season saw him awarded the Dally M Centre of the Year, an honour recognizing the best player in his position across the NRL.
He continued to be a consistent performer for the Storm, known for his relentless effort and physical style of play.
Wests Tigers
In 2024, Olam joined the Wests Tigers as part of a player swap deal. He signed a four-year contract with the club, looking to bring his experience and power to their roster.International Career
Olam has proudly represented the Papua New Guinea Kumuls, his national team, on numerous occasions. He made his international debut in 2016 and has been a crucial player for the Kumuls in various international fixtures, including the Rugby League World Cup tournaments. His passion for representing his country is well-known and deeply valued by the Papua New Guinean public.Playing Style
Justin Olam is renowned for his powerful and direct running style, often breaking tackles and making significant metres. He is also a formidable defensive player, known for his aggressive hits and strong decision-making in the centres. His try-scoring ability, combined with his physical presence, makes him a dangerous attacking threat.Awards and Honours
- NRL Premiership: 2020 (Melbourne Storm)
- Dally M Centre of the Year: 2021
- Queensland Cup Premiership: 2017 (PNG Hunters)
- PNGNRL Premiership: (Lae Snax Tigers)
[[Category:Papua New Guinean rugby league players]] [[Category:Melbourne Storm players]] [[Category:Wests Tigers players]] [[Category:Rugby league centres]] [[Category:Dally M Award winners]]