Melbourne centre Dane Nielsen has ridden a roller-coaster of emotions this NRL season but he’s determined to end his Storm career on a high.

Ahead of Friday night’s preliminary final against Manly, Nielsen is preparing to say farewell to the Storm faithful at AAMI Park after signing a three-year deal to join the Warriors.

The 27-year-old started the 2012 season well and was called into the triumphant Queensland State of Origin side as they wrapped up the series with their game three win.

But in the midst of Melbourne’s five-game losing streak, Nielsen found himself axed from the top side and looking like missing their finals campaign.

“It was a hard time, not just for myself, but for the club,” said Nielsen, who is sporting a heavy beard as part of a deal with some teammates not to shave until they lose.

“We had those five losses and it put a lot of pressure on us not just as a team but as individuals.

“A few of us players were on the edge and something had to give.

“I went back and played a couple of reggies games and worked hard, worked my butt off to get back into the side, and that’s what the coach was looking for.

“I didn’t want to finish that way here, it wasn’t the way I wanted to go out.”

Nielsen said a few niggling injuries had meant he wasn’t playing to his usual high standards but he was now fit and ready to partner Will Chambers, who was a surprise inclusion for the grand final qualifier after battling a hamstring injury.

Coach Craig Bellamy has named local product Mahe Fonua in the squad, with the 19-year-old winger likely to be called in if the backline is re-shuffled should Chambers not make the final cut.

After five years in Melbourne, Nielsen and the Storm couldn’t come to terms for a contract extension.

But Nielsen believes he’s leaving the club in great shape with youngsters like Fonua coming through the ranks.

“Mahe’s a little pocket rocket,” he said.

“They’ve got a few more under 20s boys who will be up in first grade next year so things are looking good for the Storm.”