Melbourne have bolstered their depth for the next two seasons by securing Canberra hooker Ryan Hinchcliffe and retaining rising prop Aidan Tolman until the end of 2010.

Hinchcliffe, 23, agreed to join the Storm and become captain Cameron Smith's understudy, although he is also hopeful of being considered in the back row.

Tolman, 19, has played three NRL games since making his debut in round six and resisted offers from several other clubs to commit his future to the Storm.

Storm coach Craig Bellamy said Hinchcliffe had a great opportunity to push for a spot in Melbourne's top side given his forward utility value.

"He's a tough kid who has pretty good skills around the ruck," said Bellamy.

"Cam is obviously our captain and hooker, but there's definitely a spot in the 17 with his ability to fill in at hooker and play in the backrow.

"With Matt Geyer retiring, we see Ryan possibly playing the role Matt has this year, and Nathan Friend and James Aubusson have played for us over the past couple of years."

Bellamy said Tolman was a significant signing for Melbourne's future.

"Aiden has come through our developmental system and has played extremely well this year, forcing his way into NRL calculations most weeks," said Bellamy.

"He's definitely a Melbourne Storm type of player.

"He works hard and does all of the little things that are so important in the way we play here."

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