LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Craig Bellamy, who is approaching his 23rd consecutive season as coach of the Melbourne Storm, is the subject of a new documentary titled 'Craig Bellamy - Inside the Storm.' In an interview with Yahoo Sport Australia, Bellamy discusses his future at Melbourne, his reactions to grand final defeats, his return to Origin coaching, and his infamous coaching box blow-ups.
The documentary focuses heavily on Bellamy himself, much to his initial surprise.
Bellamy jokingly admits, "I thought it was going to be more about the Storm than focused on me, but the camera seemed to be on me a whole heap." Despite finding the finished product a bit boring, he hopes it will serve as a record for his future generations to see what he was like as a coach.
Bellamy's daughter, Rachel, appreciates her father's passionate outbursts during games, describing them as her favorite part of the game.
Bellamy acknowledges feeling some anxiety about having the documentary cameras capture his every move inside the coaches' box, but he recognizes that his coaching style is on full display for everyone to see.
Storm chairman Matt Tripp likens taking over from Bellamy as head coach to "batting after Don Bradman," highlighting the challenge of following in his footsteps.
While Bellamy, 66, is contracted until the end of 2027, he has the flexibility to make a year-to-year decision about his coaching future at the club.
Reflecting on his coaching style and the intensity he brings to his role, Bellamy admits, "I get a bit embarrassed about that sometimes, but it is what it is and that's the way it is." Despite any discomfort or self-consciousness, Bellamy's passion and dedication to his role as coach are evident in the documentary.
As he navigates the challenges and successes of his coaching career, Bellamy's legacy at the Melbourne Storm remains a focal point, with fans and colleagues alike recognizing his exceptional contributions to the team.