It was lucky Melbourne won the NRL title on Sunday night, otherwise they would be flying home with nothing but a box of dry ski goggles.

Inspired by NBA champions the Los Angeles Lakers, the Storm squad bought everyone a pair of goggles to protect their eyes from the champagne showers inside the winning sheds.

Beer and bubbly drenched the players during the COVID-safe celebrations, but the goggles weren’t just about safety – the headwear made for spectacular pictures.

The plain goggles were adorned with stickers for each athlete to represent their personal apparel sponsors – if they have one.

Between the photos and the promotion – everyone was happy.

“Last couple of years a lot of (NBA) teams have worn goggles,” Cameron Munster explained.

“Some of our boys decided it would be a good idea if we did win it to get some goggles, and luckily enough we won because if we didn’t it would be a little bit embarrassing.

“One of the boys bought a box and we put the stickers on the top of them for some of the boys who are with Puma.”

After being locked in camp for five months away from home the Storm were desperate to find any way to stay entertained.

Between the NRL premiership and a good soaking of champagne it’s safe to say they did.

“The NBA guys do it, a lot of those guys always have goggles on so we, thought we’d have a bit of fun and do it,” said prop Tino Faasuamaleaui.

“It’s been a full-on year so we’ve got to make the most of it and have some fun.”