Cameron Munster says it "hit home" when he learned that Storm coach Craig Bellamy had been diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disorder, but he is hopeful the team can turn their dismal start to the season under their veteran mentor's guidance.
The Storm announced Bellamy's health diagnosis last week, with the 66-year-old receiving widespread support from those within the rugby league sphere.
Some former players have revealed the emotional impact it has on their own outlooks for the future, with Munster admitting it had not been an easy period for the club.
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"It was pretty tough to take," he said on Nine's 100% Footy on Monday.
"For myself, he is a bit of a father figure. When I left Rockhampton at 18, I obviously didn't have my family down (in Melbourne) and he became that father figure.
"It hit home, especially when you hear someone going through a tough time.
"I still believe in him and what he is able to achieve this year. I am not too sure what is further down the track for him, but to have that hit home after what we've had this year (is difficult)."
The Storm have also rallied around several teammates over the past six months due to frightening health concerns, with Eli Katoa hospitalised by a brain bleed after multiple head knocks while on Test duties for Tonga, and Tui Kamikamica this year had a stroke.
Katoa won't don the purple jersey this season as he continues his revoery, while the future of Kamikamica is uncertain.
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On top of the pair's serious health concerns, the Storm also lost the experience of Nelson Asofa-Solomona and Ryan Papenhuyzen, who both called it quits at the end of last season.
Still, despite all the off-field obstacles, Munster has not lost faith in his team or coach.
"It has been a bit of an interesting year, a bit of a rollercoaster," he continued.
"We fully believe in him and still have his back. He still has a lot to give to this team and the game. I know it is doom and gloom at the moment, but hopefully we can play this season out for him.
"He is still one of the best coaches in the game."
Munster has had few situations throughout his career where he has found himself stuck towards the bottom of the ladder. In fact, it is the first time in the Storm's history that the team has had a seven-game losing streak.
And while it may seem like a long shot to secure a spot in the finals this season, there is one rival team that the Storm can draw inspiration from as it shoots for what has become an unlikely goal.
"How good if we can say we made the finals … Penrith did it last year," the Queensland skipper said.
"Unfortunately their spine stood up, so we need to stand up in the next 11 games … I think we need to win the next 11 out of 16 (to make finals).
"If we don't do that then maybe we will be looking at Cancun."
The Storm will host the Wests Tigers on Sunday afternoon at AAMI Park.
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